Burts Reservoir Report
Nearby: Murray Lake Oknoname 30177
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Burts, located in Tillman County, Oklahoma, is a privately owned dam on Suttle Creek, with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1930, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 16 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 79 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 99 acre-feet, Burts covers an area of 11 acres. It has a controlled spillway and one outlet gate for water release.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Burts is considered to have a very high risk due to its condition assessment being unrated. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in 2010, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status is not specified, but it is noted that the risk management measures and inundation maps are not prepared.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the preservation and safety of dams like Burts should be aware of the potential risks associated with this structure. With a focus on recreation, it is crucial for regulatory agencies and private owners to prioritize regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper management of dams like Burts becomes increasingly important in mitigating risks and protecting ecosystems downstream.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
SUTTLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
99 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
North Fork Red River Near Tipton
|
18cfs |
North Fork Red River Near Headrick
|
13cfs |
Salt Fork Red River Near Elmer
|
13cfs |
Pease Rv Nr Vernon
|
4cfs |
Beaver Ck Nr Electra
|
2cfs |
Red Rv Nr Burkburnett
|
52cfs |
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.
Burts