Waxhoma Reservoir Report
Nearby: Oknoname 113072 Oknoname 113073
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Waxhoma, also known as Barnsdal Lake, is a local government-owned dam located in Osage, Oklahoma.
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Summary
Built in 1955 by designer V.V. Long, this earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and spans 900 feet in length. Its primary purpose is water supply, with a storage capacity of 2900 acre-feet and a surface area of 140 acres. The dam regulates the TR-DOG THRESHER CR river/stream and is under the jurisdiction of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board.
With a high hazard potential and unsatisfactory condition assessment, Waxhoma poses significant risks that are being closely monitored. The dam features a controlled spillway and three valve outlet gates for water release. Despite its critical importance for water supply, the dam's condition and hazard potential indicate the need for regular inspection and maintenance to ensure public safety and water resource sustainability in the region. Climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals alike will find Waxhoma to be a compelling case study in the intersection of infrastructure, climate resilience, and water management.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
TR-DOG THRESHER CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
140 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
3.86 |
Nid Storage |
2900 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
50 |
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.
Waxhoma