Sardis Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Sardis Dam, also known as Sardis Lake, is a significant federal structure located in Pushmataha County, Oklahoma.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1982 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam stands at 83 feet in height and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 735,830 acre-feet and a surface area of 13,610 acres, Sardis Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating potential flooding events in the region.

However, a risk assessment conducted by the USACE in December 2015 classified Sardis Dam's risk level as moderate, primarily due to the potential for water seepage through the embankment and the remote possibility of embankment erosion and breach. To manage and reduce this risk, the USACE has implemented an interim risk reduction plan, which includes repairs to the dam, enhanced monitoring systems, and regular emergency exercises with local and state responders. These proactive measures aim to ensure the structural integrity of the dam and minimize the potential impacts of a dam failure on downstream communities like Clayton and Antlers.

In addition, the USACE conducts routine inspections, maintenance activities, and detailed monitoring of Sardis Dam to promptly address any changes in conditions and ensure the safety of the surrounding area. With a comprehensive risk management strategy in place, Sardis Dam continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the region against flooding events while prioritizing public safety and infrastructure integrity.

Year Completed

1982

Dam Length

14138

Dam Height

83

River Or Stream

JACKFORK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13610

Hydraulic Height

77

Drainage Area

275

Nid Storage

735830

Structural Height

83

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

83
       
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.
View more

Area Campgrounds