Dry Devils and Lowrey WS SCS Site 5 Dam, located in Sutton County, Texas, along the Meckel Draw river, was completed in 1960 by the USDA NRCS.
Wind
Humidity
This local government-owned dam stands at a height of 52 feet with a length of 2346 feet, providing flood risk reduction for the area. The dam has a storage capacity of 9610 acre-feet and a normal storage of 199 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 41 acres and serving a drainage area of 23.5 square miles.
Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam is state-regulated with permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 354 feet, and it has one slide gate and two uncontrolled outlets. The condition assessment in 2021 rated the dam as fair, with a moderate risk level of 3. While the hazard potential is not available, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan may need updating to align with current guidelines.
This earth dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and managing water resources in the region. With its strategic location and design, it provides valuable flood protection while also supporting the local ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Dry Devils and Lowrey WS SCS Site 5 Dam are essential for ensuring the safety and resilience of communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
2346 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
MECKEL DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
41 |
Hydraulic Height |
52 |
Drainage Area |
23.5 |
Nid Storage |
9610 |
Structural Height |
52 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
52 |