Valley Creek Ws Scs Site 8 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Valley Creek WS SCS Site 8 Dam, located in Happy Valley, Texas, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS to serve as a flood risk reduction measure along the TR-Cottonwood Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and stretches 1900 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 691 acre-feet. While primarily serving the purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam also supports fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreation activities in the area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the TCEQ, Valley Creek WS SCS Site 8 Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential hazards. Despite being rated as "Not Available" for hazard potential and "Not Rated" for condition assessment, the dam's risk assessment is classified as high. With a single slide outlet gate and no spillway, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain undisclosed, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and resilience of the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Valley Creek WS SCS Site 8 Dam presents a fascinating case study of a key infrastructure project that balances multiple purposes while addressing the critical need for flood protection. With its historical significance and ongoing risk assessment challenges, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between human development, environmental stewardship, and disaster preparedness in managing our water resources effectively.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
1900 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-COTTONWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
1.92 |
Nid Storage |
691 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cat Claw Ck At Abilene
|
1cfs |
Colorado Rv At Robert Lee
|
0cfs |
Cedar Ck At Ih 20
|
0cfs |
Clear Fk Brazos Rv Nr Noodle
|
7cfs |
Clear Fk Brazos Rv At Hawley
|
3cfs |
Elm Ck At Ballinger
|
0cfs |
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.
Valley Creek Ws Scs Site 8 Dam