Scs-Cottonwood Creek Site-03 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
SCS-Cottonwood Creek Site-03 in Guthrie, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS in 1966 for flood risk reduction along the TR-Cottonwood Creek.
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Summary
This 38-foot high structure with a hydraulic height of 35 feet and a length of 2300 feet serves a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, storing 499 acre-feet of water with a normal storage capacity of 78 acre-feet. The dam has a spillway type of controlled, with a spillway width of 1 foot and an outlet gate of one valve.
Despite being in fair condition as of the last inspection in 2011, with a significant hazard potential and a high risk assessment rating, the dam has not been modified significantly since its construction. The risk management measures and emergency action plan status for SCS-Cottonwood Creek Site-03 are currently unknown, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this important water resource infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this site offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate design and management of dams for flood control in the Oklahoma region.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
2300 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COTTONWOODCREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Nid Storage |
499 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
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.
Scs-Cottonwood Creek Site-03