Ternes Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Custer County, Oklahoma, the Ternes dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and water resource management.
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Summary
Completed in 1967, this private-owned structure plays a crucial role in regulating Beaver Creek's flow, with a dam height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 10 feet. With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, Ternes dam is closely monitored by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, ensuring its safety and functionality for the community of Arapaho.
The dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other", serving various functions beyond flood control or irrigation. With a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a controlled spillway, Ternes dam is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 1470 cubic feet per second. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam's inspection frequency of 5 years helps to ensure its continued reliability. The presence of a single valve outlet gate demonstrates the simplicity and effectiveness of this Earth dam's design, a testament to the engineering expertise of its time.
In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ternes dam represents a focal point for understanding the delicate balance between human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. As debates surrounding dam safety and environmental impact continue to unfold, the Ternes dam serves as a case study in responsible water management practices. With its location in the Tulsa District and state-regulated status, the dam's presence on Beaver Creek plays a vital role in the region's water supply and flood control efforts, highlighting the interconnected nature of water resources and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
260 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
BEAVER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Ternes