Sister Grove Creek WS SCS Site 5 Dam, located in Collin County, Texas, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the Sweetwater Creek.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1952, this earth dam stands at a height of 49 feet and has a length of 1220 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 900 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock or small fish pond, flood risk reduction, and recreation for the local community.
With a fair condition assessment as of June 2018, the dam is inspected every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The spillway, with a width of 176 feet, is uncontrolled and can handle a maximum discharge of 5097 cubic feet per second. While the hazard potential and risk assessment are currently not available, the dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. The primary purpose of the dam is to mitigate flood risks and protect the surrounding area from potential inundation.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Sister Grove Creek WS SCS Site 5 Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam engineering and management. With its unique design features and history of serving the local community for nearly 70 years, this dam showcases the importance of proactive maintenance and inspection protocols to ensure public safety and environmental protection. The collaboration between local and federal agencies, including the NRCS and TCEQ, highlights the ongoing commitment to managing water resources effectively in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing development pressures in Collin County, Texas.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
1220 |
Dam Height |
49 |
River Or Stream |
SWEETWATER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
49 |
Drainage Area |
1.91 |
Nid Storage |
900 |
Structural Height |
49 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
49 |