Thetford D.C. Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Thetford D.C.


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Summary

is a privately owned earth dam located in Beckham County, Oklahoma, specifically in the city of Sayre. Built in 1962, this dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation, with a maximum storage capacity of 266 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 240 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a hydraulic height of 28 feet, making it a crucial water resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by the OWRB (Oklahoma Water Resources Board), Thetford D.C. sits on the TR-STARVATION CREEK and is regulated by the state of Oklahoma. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is considered to have a very high risk due to its age and condition assessment. The structure includes a controlled spillway with a width of 2 feet and an outlet gate with a single valve. While the dam has not been inspected since November 2010, it is still in operation and plays a vital role in water management for irrigation purposes in the region.

Overall, Thetford D.C. represents a significant water infrastructure asset in Oklahoma, providing essential irrigation water storage for agricultural activities in Beckham County. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Thetford D.C. are crucial to ensure water availability for the community. With proper risk management measures in place, this dam can continue to support the local ecosystem and economy while mitigating potential hazards associated with its aging infrastructure.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

625

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR-STARVATION CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

266

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

31
       
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.