Eyster John Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Eyster John, located in the city of Hydro, Oklahoma, is a privately owned dam designed by the USDA NRCS with a primary purpose classified as "Other".


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1980, stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 210 feet, providing a storage capacity of 107 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Situated on TR-Deer Creek in Custer County, Oklahoma, Eyster John has a controlled spillway with a width of 1 foot and is equipped with a single valve outlet gate. Despite being rated as having low hazard potential and not having a condition assessment, the dam is categorized as having a very high risk assessment level (1). The surrounding area is represented by Congressman Frank D. Lucas (R) and falls under the jurisdiction of the Tulsa District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Eyster John presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned earth dam in Oklahoma with state-regulated characteristics. With its unique design features and risk assessment profile, this dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water management, regulatory oversight, and emergency preparedness in the context of changing climate conditions. As a key component of the local hydrological infrastructure, Eyster John plays a crucial role in water storage and flood control measures for the region, highlighting the importance of sustainable dam management practices in the face of increasing environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

210

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-DEER CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

107

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.