Whitney Dam - Kopperl Levee Reservoir Report
Nearby: Whitney Dam K Bar Lake No 4 Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Whitney Dam - Kopperl Levee is a crucial flood risk reduction structure located in Waco, Texas, along the Brazos River.
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Summary
Built in 1951 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam stands at a height of 159 feet and serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond, recreation, and water supply in addition to flood risk reduction. The dam has a storage capacity of over 2 million acre-feet and covers a surface area of 23,560 acres, providing vital protection to the surrounding areas.
Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the risk associated with the Whitney Dam - Kopperl Levee is managed through regular inspections, monitoring, and maintenance activities. The Emergency Action Plan is updated and exercised annually to improve emergency response and coordination among various stakeholders. Although the risk of levee failure is deemed low by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the community of Kopperl remains vigilant and prepared for any potential flooding events, ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.
In the unlikely event of a levee breach, the City of Kopperl could face flooding up to one-story deep, impacting buildings and critical infrastructure. However, the comprehensive risk management measures in place, including ongoing surveillance and communication efforts, aim to mitigate these risks and protect the community from potential losses. Whitney Dam - Kopperl Levee stands as a testament to the importance of effective flood risk reduction infrastructure and proactive risk management strategies in safeguarding water resources and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
17695 |
Dam Height |
159 |
River Or Stream |
BRAZOS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
23560 |
Hydraulic Height |
148 |
Drainage Area |
17656 |
Nid Storage |
2100400 |
Structural Height |
166 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
166 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Brazos Rv Nr Aquilla
|
57cfs |
Aquilla Ck Abv Aquilla
|
1cfs |
N Bosque Rv Nr Clifton
|
28cfs |
N Bosque Rv At Valley Mills
|
17cfs |
Hog Ck Nr Crawford
|
2cfs |
Nolan Rv At Blum
|
7cfs |
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.
Whitney Dam - Kopperl Levee
Whitney Lk Nr Whitney
Aquilla Lk Abv Aquilla
Hill County