Tdcj Ferguson Unit Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Trinity, Texas, the Tdcj Ferguson Unit Dam stands as a testament to efficient water resource management and climate resilience.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, showcasing a height of 13 feet and a length of 6000 feet. With a storage capacity of 650 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 0, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Tdcj Ferguson Unit Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being rated as "Not Available" in terms of hazard potential and condition assessment, this dam remains a vital component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to the overall risk assessment of the region. With the absence of a spillway and lock system, this dam relies on its design and construction to effectively manage water flow and storage.

Amidst evolving climate patterns and increasing water demand, the Tdcj Ferguson Unit Dam serves as a vital lifeline for irrigation activities in the area. With its strategic location off the Trinity River and under the jurisdiction of the state of Texas, this dam symbolizes the interconnectedness of water resources, climate factors, and sustainable infrastructure development. As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, the significance of this dam cannot be understated in the broader context of water management and climate resilience efforts.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

6000

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

OFF CH-TRINITY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

650

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.