Carter Jim Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ridenour Herbert Bob
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Carter Jim, situated in Canadian, Oklahoma, is a privately owned dam designed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board.
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Summary
Completed in 1983, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 29 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 152 acre-feet. The dam, located on the TR-Canadian River, spans 710 feet in length and boasts a controlled spillway with a width of 1 foot.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Carter Jim is considered to have a very high risk level, indicating the need for careful monitoring and management. The dam, with a drainage area of 0.46 square miles, has one valve outlet gate and undergoes inspections every 5 years. While the current condition is not rated, emergency action plans and risk assessment measures are not fully detailed, suggesting potential areas for improvement in terms of safety and preparedness.
Overall, Carter Jim presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of private ownership, regulatory oversight, and recreational utility in the management of a vital infrastructure asset. As stakeholders continue to navigate the complexities of dam safety and risk mitigation, the example of Carter Jim serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive measures to ensure the resilience and sustainability of our water resources in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1983 |
Dam Length |
710 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CANADIAN RIV |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
0.46 |
Nid Storage |
152 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
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.
Carter Jim