Barton Rackly Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Washita County, Oklahoma, Barton Rackly is a private earth dam constructed in 1990 by the USDA NRCS.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This structure serves multiple purposes, with a primary focus on water resource management in the region. Standing at a height of 27 feet and stretching 761 feet in length, Barton Rackly has a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.61 square miles along the Washita River.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Barton Rackly is considered to have a very high risk due to its structural condition not being rated. The dam features a controlled spillway type and a single valve outlet gate for water release. While the dam is state-regulated and receives regular inspections, its emergency action plan and risk management measures are not fully documented. With its location in an area vulnerable to climate change impacts, Barton Rackly serves as a crucial infrastructure for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates to monitor closely for potential risks and improvements in the future.

In conclusion, Barton Rackly stands as a vital water resource structure in Washita County, Oklahoma, managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. With its unique design and purpose, this earth dam plays a significant role in managing water flow along the Washita River. However, concerns regarding its risk assessment and emergency preparedness highlight the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of this essential water infrastructure for the community and the environment.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

761

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

WASHITA

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

0.61

Nid Storage

56

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

27
       
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.