Chouteau Lock and Dam

VERDIGRIS RIVER· Wagoner, Oklahoma· Built 1970· Gravity· 53 ft tall
Significant Hazard Navigation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Chouteau Lock and Dam is classified as significant hazard in Oklahoma. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 years old. Its primary use is navigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 53 ft (taller than 95.7% in OK)
Dam Length11,690 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage23.3K acre-ft
Normal Storage23.3K acre-ft
Surface Area2,270 acres
Drainage Area240 sq mi
Max Discharge155,000 cfs
Year Completed1970 (56 years old)
NID IDOK10303

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: May 13, 2020
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Tulsa District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Chouteau Lock and Dam?

Chouteau Lock and Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Chouteau Lock and Dam?

Chouteau Lock and Dam is owned by USACE - Tulsa District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Chouteau Lock and Dam built?

Chouteau Lock and Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Chouteau Lock and Dam?

Chouteau Lock and Dam serves the following purposes: Navigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Chouteau Lock and Dam?

Chouteau Lock and Dam has a dam height of 53 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 Chouteau Lock and Dam last inspected?

Chouteau Lock and Dam was last inspected on May 13, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.