Cooperton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cooperton Dam, located in Comanche, Oklahoma, was completed in 1937 and serves as a vital structure for fish and wildlife conservation.


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Summary

This gravity dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 21.5 feet, with a capacity for maximum storage of 24 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam poses a very high risk due to its design and location, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance.

Managed by the Tulsa District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Cooperton Dam plays a key role in regulating water flow and preserving the surrounding environment. With a controlled spillway and one outlet valve, the dam ensures the safety of downstream areas and helps manage water discharge during periods of high flow. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, its design and operational measures underscore the commitment to safeguarding the local ecosystem and public safety.

Although Cooperton Dam has not been updated or inspected since 1995, its presence remains essential for maintaining the ecological balance and protecting the wildlife habitat in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of structures like Cooperton Dam in safeguarding ecosystems and ensuring sustainable water management practices cannot be overstated. With a focus on risk assessment and management, Cooperton Dam stands as a testament to the critical role of infrastructure in preserving our natural environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

183

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

UNKNOWN

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

21.5

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

24

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

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.