Cow Bayou Ws Scs Site 27 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cow Bayou WS SCS Site 27 Dam, located in Falls County, Texas, is a vital infrastructure designed by USDA NRCS to reduce flood risk along the TR-SOUTH COW BAYOU.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans 1500 feet in length. With a capacity to store 734 acre-feet of water, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The primary purpose of the Cow Bayou WS SCS Site 27 Dam is flood risk reduction, with additional benefits such as fire protection, stock or small fish pond, and recreation. Despite being regulated by the TCEQ and meeting state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements, the dam is categorized as having a high risk potential. However, the specific risk assessment summary and management measures are not currently available, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and water resource sustainability.

As a key component of the local government's water management infrastructure, the Cow Bayou WS SCS Site 27 Dam serves as a critical structure in safeguarding the surrounding communities from flooding events. With its historical significance dating back to the 1960s, this dam continues to play a vital role in protecting lives, property, and water resources in Falls County, Texas, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH COW BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

1.16

Nid Storage

734

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
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.