Cow Bayou WS SCS Site 3 Dam, located in McLennan County, Texas, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the TR-South Fork Cow Bayou.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1955 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 38 feet high and stretches 1350 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 932 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, but it also supports fire protection, stock, and small fish pond activities in the area.
With a spillway width of 177 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 9216 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a critical role in managing water flow during heavy rainfall events. Despite being classified as having a fair condition assessment as of April 2021, the dam's hazard potential is not available, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety for the surrounding community.
Overall, Cow Bayou WS SCS Site 3 Dam presents an essential infrastructure component in the region's water resource management system. With its strategic location and design, coupled with state-regulated oversight, this dam continues to play a vital role in mitigating flood risks and protecting the local environment and inhabitants from potential water-related hazards. Its historical significance and functional capabilities make it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
1350 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SOUTH FORK COW BAYOU |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
1.4 |
Nid Storage |
932 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
38 |
Middle Bosque Rv Nr Mcgregor
|
19cfs |
Hog Ck Nr Crawford
|
2cfs |
Brazos Rv At Waco
|
337cfs |
Leon Rv Nr Belton
|
27cfs |
Nolan Ck At S Penelope
|
38cfs |
N Bosque Rv At Valley Mills
|
17cfs |