Scs-Cowden Laterals Site-003 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

SCS-Cowden Laterals Site-003, located in Mountain View, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated dam designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the TR-Washita River.


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Summary

Completed in 1971, this earth dam stands at 35 feet high with a hydraulic height of 32 feet and a length of 720 feet. It has a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 775 cfs, with a controlled spillway and one outlet valve. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is rated as having a very high risk, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures.

Owned by the state of Oklahoma and regulated by the OWRB, SCS-Cowden Laterals Site-003 has not been inspected since 1980, with a planned inspection frequency of 5 years. With a surface area of 5 acres and a normal storage capacity of 29 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. While its condition is currently not rated, the dam's risk assessment indicates a high level of vulnerability, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to ensure its safety and functionality for the future.

Overall, SCS-Cowden Laterals Site-003 serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure in Washita County, Oklahoma, providing valuable protection to the local community and environment. With its historical significance dating back to the early 1970s, this dam exemplifies the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing water resources and climate-related hazards in the region. By prioritizing inspections, maintenance, and risk management, stakeholders can work together to safeguard the integrity and effectiveness of this essential infrastructure for years to come.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

720

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-WASHITA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

32

Nid Storage

144

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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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.