Scs-Cow Creek Site-01a Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

SCS-Cow Creek Site-01a, also known as Cow Creek Site-1a, is a state-owned dam located in Waurika, Oklahoma.


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Summary

Constructed in 1981 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 2100 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along TR Cow Creek. With a storage capacity of 2159 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed and regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB), SCS-Cow Creek Site-01a is deemed to have a significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in fair condition. The dam features a controlled spillway, one valve outlet gate, and has a maximum discharge capacity of 2390 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet state inspection, permitting, and enforcement requirements, ensuring its operational readiness in case of emergencies.

With a very high risk rating and a designated risk management plan, SCS-Cow Creek Site-01a stands as a vital infrastructure piece in the region's water resource management efforts. Supported by state and federal agencies, this dam serves as a crucial tool in protecting the local community from potential flood threats and highlights the importance of proactive infrastructure maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

2100

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR COW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

31

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

3.8

Nid Storage

2159

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.