Cooper Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cooper Lake Dam, located in Throckmorton, Texas, serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.


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Summary

Completed in 1965, this private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans a length of 1050 feet. With a storage capacity of 187 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, particularly for agricultural and ecological needs.

Despite its modest size, Cooper Lake Dam is a vital infrastructure for the local community and wildlife. It is designed with a buttress core and has a spillway width of zero, indicating its reliance on natural overflow mechanisms. With a high risk assessment rating of 2 and a lack of condition assessment data, there is a need for regular inspections and risk management measures to ensure the dam's structural integrity and safety for nearby residents and ecosystems. As an enthusiast of water resources and climate, understanding the role of dams like Cooper Lake Dam in maintaining the delicate balance of water distribution and conservation is crucial for sustainable environmental management.

In a region where water scarcity and management are pressing issues, Cooper Lake Dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing and preserving vital resources. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the responsible stewardship of dams like Cooper Lake is essential for ensuring water security for future generations. The collaboration between private ownership, state agencies, and community stakeholders in monitoring and maintaining the dam underscores the shared responsibility in safeguarding our water resources in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1050

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-BUSH KNOB CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

187

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.