Cow Bayou Ws Scs Site 2 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cow Bayou WS SCS Site 2 Dam, located in McLennan County, Texas, is a crucial structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the TR-South Fork Cow Bayou.


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Summary

Completed in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet and has a length of 1500 feet, providing a storage capacity of 2334 acre-feet and serving multiple purposes including fire protection, irrigation, and stock or small fish pond support.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Cow Bayou WS SCS Site 2 Dam has undergone modifications in 1992 for structural improvements. Despite being uncontrolled, the dam features two outlet gates and a spillway width of 200 feet. With a moderate risk assessment rating, this dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation and managing water resources effectively in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Cow Bayou WS SCS Site 2 Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure and management. With its historical significance, diverse functionality, and regulatory oversight, this structure exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource practices and the critical role of dams in mitigating flood risks and supporting various water-related activities in the local community.

Years Modified

1992 - Structural

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH FORK COW BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27.5

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

4.4

Nid Storage

2334

Structural Height

44

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

44
       
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.