Skiatook Lake’s water level is a vital resource for both recreation and the water supply of surrounding communities. This guide provides up-to-the-minute information on current conditions, historical trends, and potential impacts, empowering residents and visitors with the knowledge they need.
Want to know how full Skiatook Lake is right now? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) website (swt-wc.usace.army.mil) offers real-time data through its Water Control Data System. Look for the “pool elevation,” which indicates the water’s height. A full Skiatook Lake sits at 714 feet. As of 6:00 PM CST on December 3, 2024, the level was 709.54 feet, holding approximately 278,495 acre-feet of water compared to its full capacity of 322,700 acre-feet. For the very latest readings, NOAA also provides frequently updated data. Just a few days earlier, on December 1st, the level was slightly higher at 709.57 feet. While this seems like a small change, in a large body of water like Skiatook, it can be significant.
Understanding the Numbers: Acre-Feet and Pool Elevation
“Pool elevation” simply means the height of the water. “Acre-feet” measures volume, representing the amount of water needed to cover one acre to a depth of one foot. These metrics help us understand the lake’s capacity and current status.
Historical Perspective and Trends
Looking Back: Past Water Levels and Patterns
Historical data from resources like uslakes.info provide valuable context. By comparing current levels to past trends and seasonal variations, we gain a clearer picture. This historical perspective also helps us understand the impacts of past droughts, such as the one in 2012 when water levels dropped a significant fourteen feet. (Graphical representation of historical data would enhance understanding.)
Impact on Recreation and Local Businesses
Recreation and the Local Economy
Fluctuating water levels significantly impact recreation. Low levels may close boat ramps, restrict swimming areas, and even cause temporary closures of recreational areas like Tall Chief Cove, as happened in the past and currently. This not only disappoints visitors but also impacts local businesses dependent on lake tourism, such as restaurants and marinas. Before heading to the lake, checking current conditions on local authority or park service websites is highly recommended.
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Water Supply and Drought Conditions
The Importance of Skiatook Lake to Our Water
Skiatook Lake isn’t just for recreation; it’s a crucial water source for Skiatook, Sand Springs, Sapulpa, and parts of Tulsa. Current low levels, approximately six feet below normal, primarily due to drought exacerbated by a mild winter with low precipitation, raise concerns about the future water supply.
Drought Impacts: Past and Present
The ongoing drought, reminiscent of the 2012 drought, brings challenges. News reports from 2012 highlighted concerns about water releases from Skiatook Lake despite already low levels, raising questions about downstream needs versus protecting the lake’s water supply. Similar challenges present themselves today.
Dam Management and Flood Control
Skiatook Dam: More Than a Wall
Located 14 miles upstream from the confluence of Hominy and Bird Creeks, Skiatook Dam, authorized by the Flood Control Act of 1962, plays a vital role in flood control and water management. The dam’s outlet works, designed to handle up to 4,400 cubic feet per second (cfs), proved crucial during the 2019 flood, when inflows reached a staggering 117,729 cfs. This flood event offers valuable context for current water levels and future preparedness. Some experts suggest that climate change might increase the frequency of such extreme weather, emphasizing the dam’s vital function.
Water Quality and E. coli
E. coli Concerns and Monitoring
While the lake offers fantastic fishing opportunities, including largemouth bass, white crappie, and smallmouth bass, E. coli contamination, particularly at Tall Chief Cove Swim Beach, has led to temporary closures in the past, such as in July 2021. Several factors might contribute, including agricultural runoff, wildlife, and failing septic systems. Ongoing research is essential to pinpoint the causes and develop preventative measures. The USACE provides regular water quality updates and is the best source for beach status information.
The Future of Skiatook Lake
Looking Ahead: Climate Change and Conservation
Predicting future water levels is challenging, but continued monitoring, historical analysis, and ongoing research, particularly into climate change impacts on regional rainfall, will be critical. This research may suggest how to adjust long-term water management strategies and emphasize the importance of community involvement in conservation. While we cannot entirely eliminate future E. coli risks or guarantee consistent water levels, staying informed and understanding the lake’s complexities empower us to protect this vital resource.
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