Earl Fawver Pond 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Earl Fawver Pond 4, located in Butler, Oklahoma, is a privately owned reservoir managed by the USDA NRCS and regulated by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, completed in 2001, stands at a height of 47.9 feet and has a storage capacity of 24.94 acre-feet. The reservoir, situated on West Barnitz Creek, serves a variety of purposes beyond water storage, contributing to the local ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities for the surrounding community.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Earl Fawver Pond 4 is subject to regular inspections and falls under state jurisdiction for regulatory oversight. The controlled spillway and single valve outlet gate ensure proper water release management, while the risk assessment indicates a very high level of risk management is maintained. With a drainage area of 80 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 180 cubic feet per second, this reservoir plays a crucial role in mitigating flooding and managing water resources in the region.

With its pristine surroundings and strategic design, Earl Fawver Pond 4 stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience. The collaboration between private ownership, federal agencies, and state regulators ensures the continued safety and functionality of this essential infrastructure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we can appreciate the intricate balance of nature and engineering that goes into maintaining such a vital source of water in the heart of Oklahoma's Custer County.

Year Completed

2001

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

47.9

River Or Stream

WEST BARNITZ CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.8

Hydraulic Height

47.9

Drainage Area

80

Nid Storage

24.94

Structural Height

47.9

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

48
       
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.