Altus
Key Takeaway
Altus is classified as high hazard in Oklahoma. It was completed in 1945 and is 81 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 110 ft (taller than 99.6% in OK) |
| Dam Length | 1,104 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 162.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 134.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7,170 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,515 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 57,100 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1945 (81 years old) |
| NID ID | OK02500 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
RECLAMATION
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Altus South Dike
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High Hazard 46 ftAltus North Dike
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High Hazard 45 ftAltus Auxiliary Dike
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High Hazard 20 ftAltus Lugert Dike
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High Hazard 47 ftAltus East Dike
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High Hazard 35 ftOknoname 075017
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Low Hazard 21 ftOklahoma State of Reformatory
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Low Hazard 27 ftSullivan Lloyd
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Low Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Altus?
Altus is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Altus?
Altus is owned by RECLAMATION (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Altus built?
Altus was completed in 1945, making it 81 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Altus?
Altus serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Altus?
Altus has a dam height of 110 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Altus last inspected?
Altus was last inspected on July 14, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.