Shepard Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Troy Mattingly Robert Shepard
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Shepard Lake, located in Bryan County, Oklahoma, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
The earth dam, constructed in 1965, stands at a height of 35 feet and has a hydraulic height of 32 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 488 acre-feet. The controlled spillway with a width of 1 foot ensures proper water management and a low hazard potential.
With a surface area of 8 acres, Shepard Lake is fed by TR-Sassafras Creek and has a maximum discharge of 2749 cubic feet per second. The reservoir is inspected every 5 years, with the last assessment conducted in August 2006, deeming it to be in good condition. While the risk assessment categorizes the dam as having a very high risk potential, management measures and emergency action plans are not currently in place.
Overall, Shepard Lake serves as a vital water resource for the region, supporting agricultural activities through irrigation. Its unique location and design make it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in studying the dynamics of reservoir management and risk assessment in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SASSAFRAS CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Nid Storage |
488 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
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.
Shepard Lake