Helen Deputy Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Helen Deputy Dam, located in Cloud Chief, Oklahoma, is a privately owned structure that serves as a crucial component in managing water resources in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 470 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is classified as "Other," with a spillway type of "Controlled" and a low hazard potential rating.

Maintained by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, Helen Deputy Dam plays a vital role in regulating the flow of the Tri. to Washita River and ensuring water availability for various uses in the area. While the dam is currently in good condition and poses a low risk, its very high risk assessment rating underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and management practices. With one outlet gate and a history of regular inspections, this dam exemplifies the critical role that infrastructure plays in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Helen Deputy Dam represents a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and risk assessment. As a key component of the region's water management system, this earth dam showcases the complexities of balancing water storage needs with safety considerations. With its controlled spillway and low hazard potential, the dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to safeguard water resources in Custer County, Oklahoma, while also highlighting the need for continued vigilance and proactive risk management measures in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

470

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TRI. TO WASHITA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Nid Storage

50

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.