Madine Shirley Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Madine Shirley, located in Jackson County, Oklahoma, is a privately owned earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

With a height of 34 feet and a length of 297 feet, this dam serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water storage. It has a maximum storage capacity of 114 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 17 acre-feet, with a drainage area of 0.94 square miles.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Madine Shirley is considered to have a moderate risk level, with a risk assessment score of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 48 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 293 cubic feet per second. While the condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," the dam does not have a history of being regulated or inspected by state agencies. Additionally, there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place for this structure.

Madine Shirley presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the complexities involved in managing privately owned dams in rural areas. With its unique design and storage capabilities, this earth dam plays a crucial role in local water management and conservation efforts. As discussions around dam safety and risk management continue to evolve, Madine Shirley serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance practices to ensure the longevity and resilience of water infrastructure in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Dam Length

297

Dam Height

34

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

0.94

Nid Storage

114

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.