Smithson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Smithson is a privately owned earth dam located in Pittsburg, Oklahoma, near the city of MCALESTER.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

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
       
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.