Upper Washita River Ws Scs Site 23a Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Upper Washita River WS SCS Site 23a Dam, located in Hemphill, Texas, is a vital flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1961.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet with a length of 850 feet, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along TR-Gageby Creek. With a storage capacity of 421 acre-feet and a normal storage of 52 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.
The dam, managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), has been assessed to be in fair condition as of April 2021. It features an outlet with controlled and uncontrolled gates, ensuring efficient water release when needed. Despite its age, the Upper Washita River WS SCS Site 23a Dam continues to fulfill its intended function effectively, safeguarding the community and the environment from the impacts of excessive water flow. With regular inspections and maintenance, this structure remains a key asset in water resource management in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Upper Washita River WS SCS Site 23a Dam represents a significant infrastructure project that highlights the importance of proactive flood risk reduction measures. With a history of successful operation since the 1960s, this dam showcases the benefits of strategic water management and collaboration between government agencies. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, structures like this earth dam play a crucial role in enhancing resilience and protecting communities from the impacts of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1961 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GAGEBY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Drainage Area |
2.07 |
Nid Storage |
421 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1, Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sweetwater Ck Nr Kelton
|
3cfs |
Canadian Rv Nr Canadian
|
44cfs |
Sweetwater Creek Near Sweetwater
|
13cfs |
N Fk Red Rv Nr Shamrock
|
3cfs |
Washita River Near Cheyenne
|
8cfs |
Wolf Ck At Lipscomb
|
1cfs |
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.
Upper Washita River Ws Scs Site 23a Dam