Masquelier Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Masquelier Dam, located in Custer County, Oklahoma, stands as a testament to engineering excellence and sustainable water resource management.


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Summary

Completed in 2014, this private dam is designed by Cecil Bearden and is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 680 feet, Masquelier Dam serves as a crucial structure for controlling the flow of a tributary of the Canadian River, providing a normal storage capacity of 190 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 426 acre-feet.

The dam features a stone core and soil foundation, with a controlled spillway width of 135 feet. Despite its low hazard potential, Masquelier Dam is rated as having a very high risk due to its location and purpose. The dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are not currently rated, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and assessment. As a key component in water resource management in the region, Masquelier Dam plays a vital role in ensuring sustainable water supply and flood control for the surrounding area.

As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, the construction and operation of Masquelier Dam offer a fascinating case study in balancing the needs of water management and environmental stewardship. With its strategic location and design features, this dam serves as a critical infrastructure for the local community, providing both water storage and flood protection. As discussions around climate change and water scarcity continue to evolve, Masquelier Dam stands as a shining example of how innovative engineering solutions can address complex water resource challenges while prioritizing safety and sustainability.

Year Completed

2014

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF CANADIAN RIVER

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

4.07

Nid Storage

426

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.