Cow Bayou Ws Scs Site 28 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cow Bayou WS SCS Site 28 Dam, located in McLennan County, Texas, was completed in 1965 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction along the TR-North Cow Bayou.


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Summary

This earth-type dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a length of 1810 feet, with a storage capacity of 578 acre-feet and a surface area of 17.5 acres. Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition and is regulated and inspected by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

The primary purpose of the Cow Bayou WS SCS Site 28 Dam is flood risk reduction, although it also serves secondary purposes such as fire protection, stock, or small fish pond management. With a high hazard potential rating, the dam is closely monitored for any structural issues that may arise. The dam lacks a spillway and features one outlet gate, indicating its design for controlled water release in case of emergency. While the risk assessment categorizes it as high risk, the dam is well-maintained and in compliance with state regulatory standards.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of the Cow Bayou WS SCS Site 28 Dam in managing water flow and reducing flood risks in the region. Its location within the Fort Worth District and its association with the USDA NRCS highlight the collaborative efforts involved in sustainable water management practices. With its historical significance and ongoing state regulation, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for protecting the local community and surrounding areas from potential water-related disasters.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1810

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-NORTH COW BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.5

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

578

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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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.