Ripley Robert L Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ripley Robert L is a privately owned earth dam located in Pawnee, Oklahoma, with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1950, this dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a length of 240 feet, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. The dam is situated on TR-Panther Cr river and is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB), with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Ripley Robert L is considered to have a very high risk due to its location and design. The dam features a controlled spillway and an outlet gate for water release, with a maximum discharge of 650 cubic feet per second. It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the condition and risk assessment of this dam, as any potential failure could have significant environmental and safety implications for the surrounding area.
With a rich history dating back to the mid-20th century, Ripley Robert L serves as a recreational spot for locals and visitors alike. Although the dam has not been rated for its current condition, regular inspections are conducted every five years to ensure its safety and functionality. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, staying informed about the status of dams like Ripley Robert L is essential for maintaining sustainable water management practices and mitigating potential risks in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
240 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PANTHER CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Black Bear Creek At Pawnee
|
11cfs |
Arkansas River At Ralston
|
1820cfs |
Cimarron River Near Ripley
|
544cfs |
Hominy Creek Near Hominy
|
2cfs |
Salt Fork Arkansas River At Tonkawa
|
535cfs |
Cimarron River Near Guthrie
|
489cfs |
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.
Ripley Robert L