George W Maxwell Levee Reservoir Report
Nearby: Rusk No 1 Dam Alders Reservoir Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The George W Maxwell Levee, located in Anahuac, Texas, along the Cow Island Bayou, was completed in 1955 by the USDA NRCS and serves the primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
This privately-owned earth dam stands at a height of 6 feet, with a structural height of 8 feet and a length of 11,159 feet. With a storage capacity of 1,260 acre-feet, this levee covers a surface area of 153 acres and has a normal storage capacity of 844 acre-feet. Despite being designed for irrigation, it does not have a spillway and is equipped with one outlet gate.
Managed by the TCEQ in Texas, the George W Maxwell Levee has not been inspected since March 30, 1976, and its condition assessment remains unrated. However, it has been classified as having a high risk potential (2), although specific risk management measures are not listed. With no emergency action plan prepared or inundation maps available, the levee's hazard potential and overall risk assessment are currently not available, suggesting a need for updated assessments and preparedness measures to safeguard against potential hazards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the George W Maxwell Levee presents an intriguing case study in irrigation infrastructure design and management. With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century and its location in a flood-prone area, this levee highlights the importance of regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness in ensuring the safety and functionality of critical water management structures. As conversations around climate change and extreme weather events continue to evolve, the George W Maxwell Levee serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with maintaining and protecting our water resources.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
11159 |
Dam Height |
6 |
River Or Stream |
COW ISLAND BAYOU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
153 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Nid Storage |
1260 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Coastal Water Authority Canal Nr Dayton
|
907cfs |
Trinity Rv At Liberty
|
4490cfs |
Trinity Rv At Wallisville
|
2180cfs |
Pine Island Bayou Nr Sour Lake
|
89cfs |
Cedar Bayou Nr Crosby
|
13cfs |
Luce Bayou Abv Lk Houston Nr Huffman
|
1cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
George W Maxwell Levee
Lk Charlotte Nr Anahuac