Barnes Wu Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mercer No 5 Ray Smith
Last Updated: January 9, 2026
Barnes Wu is a privately owned dam located in Lenora, Oklahoma, within Dewey County.
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Summary
Built in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a hydraulic height of 6 feet. The primary purpose of Barnes Wu is categorized as "Other", with a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 20 acre-feet. The dam spans 225 feet in length and is equipped with a controlled spillway.
Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam, Barnes Wu is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB). The dam is situated on the TR-Lone Creek, and its maximum discharge capacity is recorded at 2030 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for Barnes Wu indicates a very high risk level, with a DSAC assigned date and no specific risk management measures outlined.
Overall, Barnes Wu presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its historical significance, structural design, and regulatory oversight. This dam serves as a critical component of the water management infrastructure in Lenora, Oklahoma, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LONE CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Nid Storage |
160 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
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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.
Barnes Wu