Edwards Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Edwards is a privately owned earth dam located in Major County, Oklahoma, near the city of Ortenta.


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Summary

Built in 1970 for recreational purposes, Edwards stands at a height of 30 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. It is primarily designed for flood control on TR-Cottonwood Creek and has a controlled spillway with a width of 1 foot. The dam is classified as low hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition.

Despite its low hazard potential, Edwards is considered to have a very high risk due to its location and structural characteristics. The dam has undergone inspections every 5 years, with the last inspection taking place in August 2009. While it has not been rated for its current condition, Edwards is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. In the event of an emergency, the dam has one valve outlet gate for controlled water release.

Overall, Edwards serves as a vital infrastructure for recreation and flood control in the area. It is monitored and managed according to state regulations to ensure public safety and efficient water resource management. With its strategic location and design features, Edwards plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential water-related risks and emergencies.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-COTTONWOOD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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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.