Mcdonald Lj Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

McDonald Lj is a privately owned dam located in Harjo, Oklahoma, on the TR-Little River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1955, this Earth core dam stands at a height of 22 feet and stretches 360 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 95 acre-feet. The dam serves various purposes, including flood control and irrigation, and is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, McDonald Lj poses a very high risk, with a Risk Assessment rating of 1. The dam's condition has not been rated, and the last inspection took place in May 2011. It is equipped with a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate. Even though it meets state regulatory standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement, further evaluation and maintenance may be necessary to ensure its long-term safety and functionality.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, McDonald Lj presents a fascinating case study of a privately owned dam in Oklahoma. With its unique design features, storage capacity, and risk assessment, this dam highlights the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and risk management measures to safeguard water resources and communities in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.