Scs-Cow Creek Site-40 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

SCS-Cow Creek Site-40, located in Stephens County, Oklahoma, is a state-regulated earth dam with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Constructed in 1988 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this site measures 20 feet in height and 1670 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 424 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.94 square miles. The dam is equipped with a controlled spillway and a valve outlet gate for water management.

Despite its low hazard potential, SCS-Cow Creek Site-40 is classified as having a very high risk assessment, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The risk management measures and emergency action plans for this site are currently not rated or in place, highlighting the need for proactive monitoring and preparedness in the face of potential climate-related challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, SCS-Cow Creek Site-40 serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and risk in the management of water resources in Oklahoma.

Year Completed

1988

Dam Length

1670

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR DRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

0.94

Nid Storage

424

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

20
       
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.