Reservoir Viability Study/Evaluation
Guernsey identified all the significant historic undeveloped reservoir sites in Oklahoma (125 sites), reviewed existing information, performed a “Fatal Flaws” analysis to efficiently eliminate unsuitable candidates, and categorized the desirability of the remaining options.
A total of 125 reservoir sites were studied and placed into five categories. Placement in the categories was based on a variety of factors.
The fatal flaws analysis was a key effort. Reservoirs were exposed to a fatal flaw review that would be so onerous that the reservoir could not be built. Significant fatal flaws included:
- Non-mitigative T&E species
- Significant wetlands
- Poor water quality
- Highway relocation (significant)
- Poor dam site geology/poor soils
- Significant oil and gas activities
- Significant development within reservoir boundaries
- Cost limitations
Additional activities included:
- Develop website
- Identify Category 3 and 4 reservoirs that reflects the strongest suitable viability
- Perform cost analysis
- Participate in regional meetings
This project was incorporated into the Oklahoma Comprehensive Water Plan.