Ruth Clark Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ruth Clark is a private dam located in McCurtain, Oklahoma, along Waterfall Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this Earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 99 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway and a low hazard potential, Ruth Clark serves primarily for purposes other than flood control or water supply.

Despite being a privately owned structure, Ruth Clark is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and undergoes regular inspections. The dam is in good condition, with a very high risk rating (1 out of 5) due to its age and potential impact on the surrounding area in case of a failure. Emergency action plans and risk management measures for the dam are currently not available, indicating a need for further preparedness and safety measures.

Located in the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Ruth Clark is an important structure contributing to water resource management in the region. With its historical significance and its role in managing water flow along Waterfall Creek, Ruth Clark remains a key asset in maintaining the stability and safety of the surrounding area.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

325

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

WATERFALL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

99

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

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.