Scs-Tonkawa Creek Site-005 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 8, 2026

SCS-Tonkawa Creek Site-005, located in Anadarko, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS in 1969 for flood risk reduction along the Tonkawa Creek.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 30 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet, and a structural height of 30 feet. It has a length of 700 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 257 acre-feet, serving a primary purpose of flood risk reduction in Caddo County.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the risk assessment for SCS-Tonkawa Creek Site-005 indicates a very high risk level, with a DSAC assigned date and no specific risk management measures identified. The dam features a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate, with a drainage area of 10 acres and a maximum discharge rate of 1200 cubic feet per second. Although the last inspection date was in 1980, the dam is still listed as in "not rated" condition assessment, emphasizing the need for updated inspection and risk management strategies to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this critical flood control structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the SCS-Tonkawa Creek Site-005 presents an intriguing case study of a state-regulated earth dam in Oklahoma, highlighting the importance of regular inspection and maintenance to mitigate the identified high risk level. With its historical significance dating back to 1969 and its vital role in flood risk reduction along the Tonkawa Creek, this dam serves as a focal point for ongoing discussions surrounding dam safety, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing water resource challenges in the region.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-TONKAWA CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

257

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.