Killingworth Kathryn Sue Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Killingworth Kathryn Sue is a private earth dam located in Hinton, Oklahoma, along the Fisher Canyon river.


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Summary

Completed in 1950, this dam stands at a height of 50 feet and has a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway and one valve outlet gate, this dam has a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. It falls under the jurisdiction of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state authorities.

Although the condition of Killingworth Kathryn Sue has not been officially rated, it undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam serves a primary purpose of "Other" and is primarily constructed of stone and soil. The surrounding area is at risk of inundation, and emergency action plans and risk management measures have not been fully established. With its strategic location and importance in water resource management, this dam serves as a critical infrastructure for the local community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Killingworth Kathryn Sue presents an intriguing case study in the management of a privately owned dam in Oklahoma. Its historical significance, structural features, and risk assessment profile highlight the complex interplay between human-made infrastructure and natural water systems. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam, it remains a focal point for understanding the challenges and opportunities in safeguarding water resources in the face of climate change and evolving regulatory frameworks.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

FISHER CANYON

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

50

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

50

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

50
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.