Rittenhouse Gp-12 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

Rittenhouse Gp-12, located in Harper County, Oklahoma, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1958 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 28 feet and with a length of 154 feet, serves the purpose of water resource management on Sleeping Bear Creek. With a storage capacity of 26 acre-feet and a surface area of 2 acres, Rittenhouse Gp-12 plays a crucial role in flood control and irrigation in the region.

Despite being classified as a low hazard potential structure, Rittenhouse Gp-12 has a moderate risk rating, indicating the need for careful monitoring and maintenance. The dam's spillway, with a width of 22 feet, is uncontrolled, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures. While the condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated, the structure's risk assessment suggests a moderate level of vulnerability, highlighting the significance of preparedness and emergency response planning.

As an essential component of the water infrastructure in Harper County, Rittenhouse Gp-12 serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and government agencies in ensuring the sustainable management of water resources in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing role in flood control and irrigation, this earth dam stands as a valuable asset for climate and water resource enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, sustainability, and environmental management.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

154

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

SLEEPING BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.