Nighswonger Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kinney #1 Kinney Gp 1
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Nighswonger is a private earth dam located in Harper County, Oklahoma, near the city of Selman.
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Summary
It was designed by the USDA NRCS and is situated on Sand Creek. The dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a storage capacity of 42 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, it has not been rated for its condition assessment and does not have an emergency action plan in place.
While Nighswonger serves a primary purpose that is not specified in the data, it is categorized as having a moderate risk level. Although it is not regulated by the state and does not receive federal funding or operations, it is monitored by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The dam does not have a spillway and is considered uncontrolled, with a spillway width of zero. Its condition and risk assessment suggest a need for further evaluation and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and water resources.
Overall, Nighswonger presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its unique characteristics and location in Oklahoma. Its moderate risk level and lack of state regulation provide an opportunity to explore the complexities of dam safety and management in rural areas. As the dam continues to be monitored by the NRCS, it will be important to track any changes in its condition assessment and risk level to prevent potential hazards and protect the local community and environment from any adverse impacts.
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
42 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cimarron River Near Buffalo
|
75cfs |
North Canadian River At Woodward
|
59cfs |
Cimarron R Near Buttermilk
|
43cfs |
Bluff Creek Nr Buttermilk
|
43cfs |
Cimarron River Near Waynoka
|
133cfs |
North Canadian River Near Seiling
|
101cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Nighswonger