Plum Creek WS SCS Site 18 Dam, located in Niederwald, Texas, is a crucial structure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along the Withers Hollow river or stream.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans a length of 2290 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1700 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving the local community in Caldwell County.
Managed by the TCEQ and subject to state regulations, the Plum Creek WS SCS Site 18 Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being assessed as in fair condition as of October 2015, the dam poses a moderate risk level (3) according to the risk assessment. It features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates for water release, with a capacity to handle a maximum discharge of 2 cubic feet per second.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Plum Creek WS SCS Site 18 Dam presents an interesting case study in dam infrastructure and flood management. Its location in a high-risk area underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to protect downstream communities and natural habitats from potential hazards. As discussions around climate change and water resource management continue to evolve, understanding the role of dams like this one in safeguarding against floods and ensuring water security will be increasingly vital.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
2290 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
WITHERS HOLLOW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
2.53 |
Nid Storage |
1700 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
35 |