Richardson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Davison No.1 Davison No.2
Last Updated: December 31, 2025
Richardson is a privately owned dam located in Ellis, Oklahoma, near the city of Trail.
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Summary
Constructed in 1960, this earth dam stands at 40 feet high and has a storage capacity of 420 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes and is primarily regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB), with state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement all in place.
Despite its low hazard potential, Richardson poses a significant risk due to its very high risk assessment rating. The dam has a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate. While it has not been rated for condition assessment, it is regularly inspected every five years to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam is situated on the TR-W Hackberry Creek and has a maximum discharge capacity of 4150 cubic feet per second.
Overall, Richardson is a crucial structure for water resource management in the region, providing both storage and flood control benefits. With its strategic location and ownership, the dam plays a vital role in the overall water management system in Ellis County, Oklahoma. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Richardson to be a fascinating example of how infrastructure can help mitigate risks and ensure the sustainable use of water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TR-W HACKBERRY CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
420 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Richardson