Burford Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Burford Dam, located in Comanche, Oklahoma, is a concrete structure primarily used for creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1933 by the Fish and Wildlife Service, this dam stands at 25 feet high with a hydraulic height of 34 feet and a length of 90 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 69 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 6.1 square miles in the Panther Creek watershed.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 2 feet and has a low hazard potential, although its condition assessment is rated as poor. Despite this, the risk assessment for Burford Dam is moderate, with an inspection frequency of 5 years. With a Federal ownership and operation under the Fish and Wildlife Service, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources for wildlife conservation in the area.

As a key infrastructure for water management in the region, Burford Dam provides essential habitat for wildlife while also serving as a recreational area for visitors. Despite its aging condition, ongoing assessments and risk management measures are in place to ensure the safety and functionality of this important structure. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the unique role that Burford Dam plays in balancing conservation efforts with water management needs in the Oklahoma landscape.

Year Completed

1933

Dam Length

90

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

Panther Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

6.1

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

34
       
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.