Cottonwood Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Located in Briscoe, Texas, the Cottonwood Dam stands as a testament to engineering prowess and environmental stewardship.
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Summary
Completed in 1960, this earth dam on Little Cottonwood Creek boasts a height of 35 feet and a length of 300 feet, providing a recreational oasis for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a storage capacity of 294 acre-feet and a surface area of 17 acres, the dam serves as a vital resource for the local community.
Despite its age, the Cottonwood Dam remains in good condition, with a hazard potential of "Not Available" and a risk assessment rating of "High (2)". While not federally owned or regulated, the dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Although lacking a spillway, the dam is equipped with one outlet gate and has not undergone any major modifications since its completion.
As climate change threatens water resources across the globe, the Cottonwood Dam stands as a resilient structure, providing both recreational opportunities and essential water storage for the surrounding area. Its history and design offer a valuable insight into the intersection of human engineering and environmental conservation, making it a site of interest for those passionate about water resource management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Nid Storage |
294 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Cottonwood Dam