Burns Nelson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Oknoname 30129 Groendyke Pond No.1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Burns Nelson is a privately owned earth dam located in Bridgeport, Oklahoma, on the TR-Canadian River.
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Summary
Completed in 1967, this 35-foot-tall structure serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 210 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.2 acres. The dam is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB), with state oversight for permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safe operation.
Despite its low hazard potential, Burns Nelson is considered to have a very high risk due to its condition assessment not being rated. The dam features a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate for water release. The last inspection was conducted in July 2009, with a recommended inspection frequency of every five years. While an emergency action plan (EAP) and risk management measures are not currently in place, the structure has not been modified in recent years, maintaining its original design and functionality.
As a key element in the Tulsa District's water resource management, Burns Nelson plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities in the area. With its location in Blaine County and the oversight of the OWRB, this dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure for both water supply and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CANADIAN RIV |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Nid Storage |
210 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |
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.
Burns Nelson