Noel Kaiser Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Noel Kaiser Dam, located in Custer County, Oklahoma, was completed in 2007 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife conservation in the area.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at 42 feet in height and spans 210 feet in length, with a capacity of 86.5 acre-feet for storage. Situated on Rough Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing a controlled spillway for maximum discharge of 145 cubic feet per second.

With a hazard potential rated as low and a risk assessment indicating a very high level, Noel Kaiser Dam is subject to regular inspections by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, but it meets state regulatory standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Although owned by a private entity, the dam is maintained with oversight from the Natural Resources Conservation Service and operates with the primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife habitats in the region.

This impressive structure not only contributes to the ecosystem of the area but also serves as a testament to the importance of water resource management in mitigating climate impacts. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, it is crucial to recognize the role of dams like Noel Kaiser in protecting and sustaining our natural environment for future generations to come.

Year Completed

2007

Dam Length

210

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

ROUGH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.5

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

1.12

Nid Storage

86.5

Structural Height

42

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

43
       
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.