Ellsworth is a vital earth-type dam located on the East Cache Creek in Richards Spur, Oklahoma, with a primary purpose of water supply. Completed in 1961, this dam stands at a towering height of 96 feet and spans 3900 feet in length, providing a maximum storage capacity of 189,200 acre-feet and a normal storage volume of 59,470 acre-feet. With a surface area of 5,220 acres and a drainage area of 249 square miles, Ellsworth plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and storage in the region.

Despite its significant contributions to water resource management, Ellsworth poses a high hazard potential due to its unsatisfactory condition assessment. This poses a challenge in ensuring the safety and reliability of the dam in the face of potential risks. With a very high risk rating, it is essential for regulatory agencies like the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to conduct regular inspections, enforce necessary measures, and prepare emergency action plans to mitigate any potential threats associated with the dam.

The location of Ellsworth within Comanche County, Oklahoma, underlines the importance of maintaining and upgrading infrastructure to address the increasing demands on water resources and the impacts of climate change. With a controlled spillway, valve and vertical lift gates, and a high-risk profile, Ellsworth serves as a critical asset for water supply in the region, calling for continued attention and investment to ensure its long-term resilience and safety in the face of evolving environmental challenges.