Smithson is a privately owned earth dam located in Pittsburg, Oklahoma, near the city of MCALESTER.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1930, this structure stands at 18 feet in height and spans 450 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 107 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) and is classified as having a high hazard potential, yet its condition assessment remains satisfactory.
With a controlled spillway and a valve outlet gate, Smithson is designed to manage a maximum discharge of 7068 cubic feet per second. The dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other," and it is primarily used for water resource management. Despite its age, Smithson has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in November 2021, and is deemed to meet safety guidelines.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Smithson a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure in Oklahoma. Its very high risk assessment rating underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the integrity of the structure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Smithson play a crucial role in managing water flow and minimizing the risk of flooding in the region.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MUD CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
107 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
Canadian River At Calvin
|
361cfs |
Fourche Maline Near Red Oak
|
1cfs |
Kiamichi River Near Clayton
|
182cfs |
North Canadian River Near Wetumka
|
209cfs |
Canadian River Near Whitefield
|
1190cfs |
Little River Near Sasakwa
|
12cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake McAlester
|
||
Elm Point - Eufaula Lake
|
||
Murphys Meadow Military - McAlester
|