Johnson Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Johnson is a private earth dam located in Woodward, Oklahoma, on West Creek.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA NRCS, the dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a storage capacity of 18 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Johnson is not currently rated for its condition and lacks important emergency preparedness measures such as an EAP and inundation maps.

With a spillway type of "Uncontrolled" and no associated locks or gates, Johnson poses minimal risk to its surroundings. However, the absence of recent inspections and condition assessments raises some concerns about its long-term maintenance and safety. Located in a rural area with a low population density, Johnson serves mainly agricultural purposes and does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Johnson presents an interesting case study of a privately owned earth dam in a relatively remote location. Its moderate risk assessment calls for closer monitoring and potential upgrades to meet modern safety standards. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the resilience of structures like Johnson will be crucial for maintaining a sustainable water supply for surrounding communities.

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

WEST CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

34

Nid Storage

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

34
       
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.
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