Lower San Saba River Ws Scs Site 16 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Lower San Saba River WS SCS Site 16 Dam, located in San Saba County, Texas, was completed in 1973 and is owned by the local government.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 26 feet in height and spans a length of 1300 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a total storage capacity of 1632 acre-feet.

The dam, situated on China Creek, falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of TCEQ and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite not having a spillway, it serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk management in the area. With a high risk assessment rating of 2, measures for risk management are not specified, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Lower San Saba River WS SCS Site 16 Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam engineering and flood risk reduction. Its location, design, and storage capacity offer valuable insights into the management of water resources in Texas. As a vital piece of infrastructure, understanding the operation and maintenance of this dam is essential for safeguarding the surrounding communities and ecosystems from potential flood hazards.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

CHINA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

3.75

Nid Storage

1632

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.