Big Sandy Creek Ws Scs Site 5a Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Sandy Creek WS SCS Site 5a Dam, located in Clay County, Texas, stands as a vital structure for flood risk reduction along the TR-Prairie Branch.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam with a height of 25 feet and a length of 1300 feet serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flood hazards. With a normal storage capacity of 63 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3.28 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction. Despite being classified as having a high risk level, the dam's condition has not been rated, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and maintenance. With no spillway and limited information on hazard potential, there is a pressing need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this essential water resource infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Sandy Creek WS SCS Site 5a Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of engineering, environmental stewardship, and public safety. As a key component of the region's water management system, this dam serves as a critical barrier against flooding while also raising important questions about infrastructure resilience and risk assessment in the face of changing climate patterns. By understanding and appreciating the nuances of this structure, enthusiasts can gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with sustainable water resource management in a dynamic and evolving landscape.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1300 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PRAIRIE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
3.28 |
Nid Storage |
1290 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
W Fk Trinity Rv Nr Jacksboro
|
1cfs |
Belknap Ck Nr Ringgold
|
112cfs |
E Fk Little Wichita Rv Nr Henrietta
|
0cfs |
Beaver Ck Nr Ringgold
|
145cfs |
Red Rv Nr Terral
|
200cfs |
Little Wichita Rv Abv Henrietta
|
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.
Big Sandy Creek Ws Scs Site 5a Dam
Lk Amon G Carter Nr Bowie