Morrison James Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Morrison James is a privately owned earth dam located in Stephens, Oklahoma, specifically on the TR Black Bear Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1978 for flood risk reduction, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. It is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite its low hazard potential, Morrison James has been assessed as having a very high risk due to its critical role in flood risk reduction in the area. The dam features a controlled spillway and a valve outlet gate to manage water flow. Although it has not been rated for its condition, it is essential for protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

With its strategic location and importance in flood control, Morrison James serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in safeguarding the community from water-related risks. Its design, construction, and operation are closely monitored to ensure its effectiveness in mitigating flood impacts and maintaining the safety of the area.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR BLACK BEAR CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.