A.J. Ryder Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

A.J.


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Summary

Ryder is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Lawton, Oklahoma, along Cache Creek. Constructed in 1998 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at 15.9 feet high and has a storage capacity of 135.11 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Owned by a private entity, A.J. Ryder is regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. Its primary purpose is to support fish and wildlife, with a normal storage capacity of 27 acre-feet. Despite being classified as not rated in terms of condition assessment, the dam serves as a vital component in water conservation efforts in Comanche County.

With a controlled spillway and a maximum discharge of 810 cubic feet per second, A.J. Ryder plays a significant role in managing water flow and flood control along Cache Creek. Its location in Lawton, Oklahoma, underscores its importance in sustaining the local ecosystem and supporting wildlife habitats. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, A.J. Ryder represents a noteworthy example of private ownership contributing to environmental conservation and sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

775

Dam Height

15.9

River Or Stream

CACHE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

15.9

Drainage Area

430

Nid Storage

135.11

Structural Height

15.9

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.