Felix Cook Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Felix Cook Dam, located in Rusk, Texas, was completed in 1961 and serves as a vital irrigation resource for the region.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a primary purpose of irrigation, the dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet. Situated on Grist Creek, the dam is of Earth type with a Buttress core design.

Managed by a private owner, Felix Cook Dam is not regulated by the state and has not been assessed for its condition. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is rated as high, indicating the need for proper risk management measures. The dam lacks a spillway and associated structures, but features one outlet gate for water control.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Felix Cook Dam provides an intriguing case study of a privately owned irrigation structure with significant storage capacity. Its location in Texas and reliance on Grist Creek for water supply highlight the importance of efficient water management practices in the region. Despite its age and potential risks, the dam's operational status and structural integrity remain unassessed, raising questions about the need for proper maintenance and risk mitigation strategies in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

GRIST CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

180

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.