Panther Creek Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 26, 2025

Panther Creek, located in McCurtain County, Oklahoma, is a Federal-owned concrete dam completed in 1936 by the USDA Forest Service for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

With a dam height of 15 feet and a length of 171 feet, Panther Creek has a storage capacity of 261 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 21 acres. Despite being a low hazard potential structure, its risk assessment is rated as moderate (3), highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts to ensure its continued safety and functionality.

Managed by the Forest Service, Panther Creek serves as a valuable resource for both fish and wildlife habitat conservation and recreational activities in the area. Although the dam is currently not subject to state regulation or inspection, the Forest Service takes on the responsibility of regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With its uncontrolled spillway type and moderate risk level, Panther Creek presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to engage in discussions surrounding the management and conservation of water resources in the region.

As a key feature in the Fort Worth District and under the representation of Congressman Markwayne Mullin (R), Panther Creek stands as a testament to the USDA Forest Service's commitment to balancing conservation efforts with recreational opportunities. Its historical significance, combined with its ongoing role in supporting local ecosystems and outdoor activities, makes Panther Creek a site of interest for those passionate about water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

171

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

PANTHER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

21

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

261

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.