Settling Ponds Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Settling Ponds, located in Johnston, Oklahoma, alongside the Mill Creek river, serve as a key structure for tailings management purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Owned by a federal agency, the ponds have a storage capacity of 3,000 acre-feet and a low hazard potential rating. With a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate, the ponds have a hydraulic height of 30 feet and were last inspected in 2009.
Despite not being regulated by the state, Settling Ponds play a crucial role in mitigating the environmental impact of mining activities in the region. With a risk assessment rating of "Very High (1)", the ponds are deemed essential for managing sedimentation and ensuring water quality in the area. The lack of recent condition assessment and emergency action plan updates, however, raises concerns about the readiness of the structure in the face of potential risks.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Settling Ponds offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of mining operations and environmental stewardship. As a federal-owned structure with limited state oversight, the ponds represent a critical component of tailings management in the region. With their strategic location along the Mill Creek river and a clear focus on risk management, the ponds stand as a testament to the ongoing challenges and opportunities in sustainable water resource management.
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
MILL CREEK |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
3000 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rock Creek At Sulphur
|
8cfs |
Pennington Creek Near Reagan
|
57cfs |
Blue River Near Connerville
|
49cfs |
Washita River Near Dickson
|
319cfs |
Washita River Near Pauls Valley
|
327cfs |
Clear Boggy Creek Near Caney
|
423cfs |
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.
Cold Springs - Chickasaw National Rec Area
Central Campground
Central - Chickasaw National Rec Area
Bukhorn Campground Loop A
Rock Creek - Chickasaw National Rec Area
Buckhorn Campground Loop B
Settling Ponds