Scs-Upper Elk Creek Site-23a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 3, 2026
SCS-Upper Elk Creek Site-23a is a state-regulated dam located in Beckham, Oklahoma.
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Summary
Designed by USDA NRCS and completed in 1976, this earth dam stands at 32 feet tall and spans 1690 feet in length. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 740 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 7430 cubic feet per second. The dam is situated on TR-ELK CR and is under the jurisdiction of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board.
With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, SCS-Upper Elk Creek Site-23a presents a very high risk level of 1 on the risk assessment scale. The dam features a controlled spillway and one slide gate outlet. While last inspected in July 2011, the dam is in need of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood risk management. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this site a fascinating example of engineered infrastructure in response to environmental challenges, highlighting the importance of proactive risk management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
1690 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ELK CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
1.28 |
Nid Storage |
740 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Scs-Upper Elk Creek Site-23a