The Upper East Fk Laterals WS SCS Site 9 Dam, located in Kaufman, Texas, is a crucial water resource infrastructure designed by the USDA NRCS to reduce flood risks along the TR-Buffalo Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 1497 feet, with a storage capacity of 526 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction, fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreation.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam has been inspected regularly, with its condition assessed as fair as of April 2021. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam features three outlet gates and a spillway width of 102 feet to manage excess water flow. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is deemed to have a stable hazard potential and meets safety guidelines, ensuring the surrounding community's protection in the event of emergencies.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Upper East Fk Laterals WS SCS Site 9 Dam represents a vital piece of infrastructure contributing to the overall water management system in Texas. Its history, design, and functionality showcase how such structures play a crucial role in mitigating flood risks and providing various benefits to the local ecosystem. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and monitoring dams like this one become increasingly important for ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water supply.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
1497 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BUFFALO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.83 |
Nid Storage |
526 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |