Hilbert Klinger Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Hilbert Klinger, located in Osage, Oklahoma, along the Arkansas River, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Constructed in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 40 feet with a storage capacity of 530 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, this dam is under the regulatory oversight of the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB), ensuring state-permitted inspections and enforcement measures are in place.

Despite being not rated for condition assessment, Hilbert Klinger remains a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as fishing and boating. With a controlled spillway and a single valve outlet gate, this dam offers a serene setting for visitors to enjoy the 35-acre surface area created by its construction. While it has not undergone recent modifications or assessments, the dam's location and design reflect a commitment to both safety and environmental stewardship, aligning with the Natural Resources Conservation Service's expertise in sustainable land and water management practices.

As a key structure in the Tulsa District managed by the USDA NRCS, Hilbert Klinger serves as a testament to the importance of balancing water resource management with recreational opportunities. With its strategic placement along the Arkansas River, this dam not only contributes to flood control and water storage but also provides a picturesque backdrop for visitors to connect with nature. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the presence of well-maintained dams like Hilbert Klinger underscores the need for proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure the long-term resilience of our water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

ARKANSAS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

40

Nid Storage

530

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.