Scs-Upper Elk Creek Site-23d Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 3, 2026
SCS-Upper Elk Creek Site-23d is a state-owned earth dam located in Elk City, Oklahoma, designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Elk Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1976, this 36-foot tall structure has a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a length of 1170 feet, providing a storage capacity of 430 acre-feet to mitigate flooding in the area. The dam is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity.
Despite being assessed as in fair condition during the last inspection in August 2011, with a high hazard potential, the dam has a very high risk assessment rating. It is equipped with a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate. The surrounding area is at risk of inundation in the event of a breach, highlighting the importance of ongoing risk management measures and emergency preparedness. Overall, the SCS-Upper Elk Creek Site-23d serves as a critical infrastructure for flood control in Beckham County, Oklahoma, underscoring the vital role of water resource management in mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events on local communities.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
1170 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
ELK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Nid Storage |
430 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
36 |
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-23d