Optima Dam
Key Takeaway
Optima Dam is classified as high hazard in Oklahoma. It was completed in 1978 and is 48 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 | 120 ft (taller than 99.7% in OK) |
| Dam Length | 16,875 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 618.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 129.0K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5,340 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,341 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 359,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1978 (48 years old) |
| NID ID | OK20510 |
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
USACE - Tulsa District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Optima Dam?
Optima Dam 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 Optima Dam?
Optima Dam is owned by USACE - Tulsa District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Optima Dam built?
Optima Dam was completed in 1978, making it 48 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 Optima Dam?
Optima Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Optima Dam?
Optima Dam has a dam height of 120 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 Optima Dam last inspected?
Optima Dam was last inspected on September 26, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.