Pensacola Dam, Grand Lake O'The Cherokees
N 36° 28.083 W 095° 02.497
15S E 317075 N 4037801
Pensacola Dam in NE OK is the longest multiple-arch dam in the world. It stretches nearly a mile, and features 21 spillways on the main span plus another 21 spillways in 2 sister dams nearby.
Waymark Code: WM9PZZ
Location: Oklahoma, United States
Date Posted: 09/16/2010
Views: 10
Located in Northeast Oklahoma, Pensacola Dam and Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees provide flood control for the Grand River and produce hydroelectric power for Grand River Dam Authority. Known as the Grand River Project, the facility was the first hydroelectric system in Oklahoma.
Pensacola Dam is the longest multiple arch dam in the world. Its main span stretches nearly a mile. The structure’s 51 arches and 21 spillways combine for total length of 5,145 feet. Each arch has a clear span of 60 feet.
A walkway and narrow two lane highway (State Route 28) are built on top of the dam, affording beautiful views of both the lake and the structure itself. A 120 megawatt, 6-unit powerhouse sits at the west end, with 21 spillways on the east end. Another mile east, through the town of Disney, lie two small sister dams known as "the spillways" with an additional 21 gates, surrounded by public parks and launching ramp.
Water through each of the spillways is controlled by flood gates measuring 25 feet by 36 feet. These gates are operated by two 60-ton hoists. The dam towers as much as 150 feet above the riverbed.
Waterway where the dam is located: Grand River
Main use of the Water Dam: Hydroelectric Power Production
Material used in the structure: Concrete
Height of Dam: 150 feet
Date built: 03/01/1940
Fishing Allowed: yes
Motor Sports Allowed: yes
|
Visit Instructions:
Photo of the Dam and a description of your visit.