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