Kaukental Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Kaukental is a privately owned Earth dam located in the city of Butler, Oklahoma.
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Summary
Completed in 1979, it stands at a height of 25 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Kaukental is considered to have a very high risk level due to its location and the potential impact on the surrounding area in case of failure.
The primary purpose of Kaukental is listed as "Other," and it serves as a crucial structure for managing water resources in the region. Situated on the TR-Wildhorse Creek, the dam plays a significant role in controlling the flow of water and mitigating flood risks in the area. With a controlled spillway type and a single valve outlet gate, Kaukental is designed to handle a maximum discharge of 1480 cubic feet per second. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the risk assessment for Kaukental remains very high, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality.
Owned and operated privately, Kaukental stands as a testament to the vital role that dams play in water resource management and climate resilience. As a key infrastructure in Custer County, Oklahoma, Kaukental showcases the intricate balance between harnessing water for human needs and safeguarding against potential risks and environmental impacts. With its strategic location and regulated status, Kaukental serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to sustainably manage water resources in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing challenges.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WILDHORSE CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Kaukental