Scs-Upper Elk Creek Site-40 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 8, 2026

SCS-Upper Elk Creek Site-40, located in Washita, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated earth dam with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Constructed in 1957 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 21 feet, providing a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway and a low hazard potential, this dam has not been rated for condition assessment but is inspected every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite its age, SCS-Upper Elk Creek Site-40 remains a crucial infrastructure for managing flood risk in the area. It is situated along the TR Elk Creek, a vital waterway in the region. Even though the dam's last inspection was conducted in 1980, its risk assessment remains at a very high level (1), indicating the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to prevent any potential hazards. With a single outlet gate and a compact surface area of 7 acres, this dam plays a significant role in water resource management in the Tulsa District.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the details of SCS-Upper Elk Creek Site-40 provides insights into the complex network of dams and reservoirs that help regulate water flow and mitigate flood risks in Oklahoma. Despite its modest size and age, this dam serves a critical function in protecting the surrounding communities and ecosystems. By recognizing the efforts of agencies like the USDA NRCS in designing and maintaining such structures, we can appreciate the importance of sustainable water management practices for a changing climate.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR ELK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.