Zobisch Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Zobisch is a private dam located in Caddo, Oklahoma, with a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet. The dam is primarily used for other purposes and is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, with state inspection and enforcement in place to ensure its safety.

Situated on TR-SUGAR CREEK, Zobisch has a controlled spillway with a width of 1 foot and an outlet gate consisting of a single valve. Despite being last inspected in 2010, with a five-year inspection frequency, the dam is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its overall condition assessment. While the dam is not associated with any federal agencies or funding, its risk assessment remains at a very high level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks associated with its operation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Zobisch serves as an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam in Oklahoma, highlighting the complexities of dam regulation and risk management. With its unique design features and historical significance, Zobisch presents a valuable opportunity for further research and exploration into the intersection of water infrastructure and environmental stewardship in the region. As efforts continue to enhance the safety and resilience of dams like Zobisch, understanding its role in the local ecosystem and community becomes increasingly vital for sustainable water resource management.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-SUGAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

240

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.