Scs-Little Washita River Site-23 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

SCS-Little Washita River Site-23 is a state-owned structure located in Rocky Ford, Oklahoma, along the TR-Little Washita River.


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Summary

Designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 164 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 500 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, SCS-Little Washita River Site-23 is considered to have a very high risk due to its location and the surrounding terrain. The dam is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) and is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. While the condition assessment is currently not rated, the emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are not fully documented. As a key component in the flood control system, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this structure for the local community.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, SCS-Little Washita River Site-23 presents an intriguing case study of a state-regulated earth dam designed for flood risk reduction. Situated in Caddo County, Oklahoma, this structure plays a vital role in managing water flow along the Little Washita River, with a spillway width of 1 foot and a single valve outlet gate. With a history dating back to 1970, this dam serves as a key piece of infrastructure in the Tulsa District, contributing to the overall water management strategy in the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

870

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE WASHITA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

34

Nid Storage

164

Structural Height

36

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

36
       
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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.