Lake Cooper Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Olney Dam Powell Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Cooper Dam, located in Archer, Texas, was completed in 1953 and serves as a vital structure for both recreation and water supply purposes.
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Summary
Designed by Ernest L Andrews, this earth dam spans 2,050 feet in length and stands at a height of 49 feet, with a storage capacity of 7,163 acre-feet. The dam overlooks Mesquite Creek and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), ensuring state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures are in place.
Despite its historical significance, Lake Cooper Dam currently has a poor condition assessment and is considered to have a moderate risk level. The last inspection in 1987 highlighted the need for improvements, and with the hazard potential not available, there is an urgency for maintenance and risk management measures to be implemented. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 500 feet and four uncontrolled outlet gates, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure for the surrounding community and environment.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the intriguing aspects of Lake Cooper Dam lie in its dual purpose of providing recreational opportunities while also safeguarding water supply needs. With its proximity to Mesquite Creek and the potential risks associated with its current condition, there is a call for attention and action to preserve this essential infrastructure for future generations. The collaboration between local government, regulatory agencies, and stakeholders will be key in ensuring the sustainable management and maintenance of Lake Cooper Dam for years to come.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
2050 |
Dam Height |
49 |
River Or Stream |
MESQUITE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
49 |
Nid Storage |
7163 |
Structural Height |
49 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 4 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
49 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Wichita Rv Nr Archer City
|
2cfs |
S Side Canal Nr Dundee
|
0cfs |
Brazos Rv At Seymour
|
31cfs |
Wichita Rv Nr Mabelle
|
1cfs |
Brazos Rv Nr South Bend
|
28cfs |
Beaver Ck Nr Electra
|
2cfs |
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.
Lake Cooper Dam