Doersch Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Doersch is a privately owned dam located in Ellis, Oklahoma, with a primary purpose categorized as "Other." Constructed in 1955 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 60 acre-feet.
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Summary
With a controlled spillway type and a low hazard potential, Doersch has a very high risk assessment rating of 1, making it a crucial structure for water resource management in the area.
Managed by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB), Doersch is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite not being federally owned or funded, the dam plays a significant role in the water infrastructure of the region. The dam has a single valve outlet gate and a surface area of 5 acres, serving the TR-OTTER-CR river or stream and providing critical water storage and flood control benefits to the surrounding community.
With a risk assessment highlighting its importance in the region, Doersch represents a key piece of infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a privately owned dam with state oversight and support from the NRCS, this structure serves as a vital component of the water management system in Ellis County, Oklahoma. The dam's low hazard potential, yet high-risk assessment, underscores the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the local environment and residents from potential water-related disasters.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
495 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-OTTER-CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Canadian River At Woodward
|
68cfs |
Cimarron River Near Buffalo
|
75cfs |
Wolf Ck At Lipscomb
|
1cfs |
Cimarron R Near Buttermilk
|
44cfs |
Bluff Creek Nr Buttermilk
|
39cfs |
Crooked C Nr Englewood
|
7cfs |
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.
Doersch