Comal River Ws Scs Site 5 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Comal River WS SCS Site 5 Dam, located in New Braunfels, Texas, is a crucial infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to address flood risk reduction along the TR-West Fork Dry Comal Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1957, this earth dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a hydraulic height of 32 feet, providing vital protection to the surrounding areas. With a storage capacity of 636 acre-feet and a normal storage of 44 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in mitigating flood risks and stabilizing grades in the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the TCEQ, Comal River WS SCS Site 5 Dam also serves purposes such as grade stabilization and water supply. Its spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 153 feet, and it features outlet gates including a slide gate and two uncontrolled gates. The dam is in satisfactory condition as of the most recent assessment in April 2021, with a moderate risk level assigned. It is an essential component of the water resource infrastructure in Comal County, contributing to the overall resilience and sustainability of the region's water management systems.

In conclusion, Comal River WS SCS Site 5 Dam is a vital structure that plays a key role in flood risk reduction and water resource management in the area. With its strategic location and design, the dam provides valuable protection to the community while also supporting grade stabilization and water supply needs. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water resources, the presence of well-maintained structures like this dam becomes increasingly important for ensuring the safety and security of local residents and properties.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR-WEST FORK DRY COMAL CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.38

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

1.7

Nid Storage

636

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

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.