Upper Washita River Ws Scs Site 14a Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Hemphill, Texas, the Upper Washita River WS SCS Site 14a Dam stands as a testament to flood risk reduction efforts in the region.


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Summary

Constructed in 1962 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam measures 35 feet in height and spans 960 feet in length, providing crucial protection to the surrounding area. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 622 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.22 square miles.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Upper Washita River WS SCS Site 14a Dam plays a vital role in safeguarding the community from potential hazards. Despite its high risk assessment rating of 2, the dam's condition remains unrated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. With no spillway and limited emergency preparedness measures in place, the dam serves as a critical infrastructure asset that requires continued attention and investment to ensure its effectiveness in the face of changing climate conditions.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Upper Washita River WS SCS Site 14a Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, natural resources, and environmental protection. Its presence along the Washita River not only mitigates flood risks but also symbolizes the ongoing efforts to balance human development with the conservation of water resources. By recognizing the importance of structures like the Upper Washita River WS SCS Site 14a Dam, we can work towards building a more resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

960

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-WASHITA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

2.22

Nid Storage

622

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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.