Morrow Dam No 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Morrow Dam No 4 Morrow Lake No 2 Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Morrow Dam No 3, located in Frio, Texas, along Buckhorn Creek, stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management in the region.
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Summary
Built in 1968 by the USDA NRCS, this privately owned Earth dam primarily serves the purpose of irrigation, with a storage capacity of 146 acre-feet. The dam's design, with a height of 15 feet and length of 1055 feet, showcases efficient water storage and distribution for agricultural needs.
Despite not being regulated by the state, Morrow Dam No 3 plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation, fire protection, stock, and small fish ponds. With no spillway and a hazard potential rated as 'Not Available,' the dam's high-risk assessment underscores the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. While its condition assessment remains unrated, the dam's strategic location and design contribute to its role in enhancing water security and climate resilience in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts appreciate Morrow Dam No 3's contribution to sustainable water management, ongoing discussions about risk management measures and emergency action plans are essential to ensure the continued effectiveness and safety of this vital infrastructure. With its history of service and potential for future enhancements, Morrow Dam No 3 stands as a symbol of responsible water resource stewardship in the face of changing environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1055 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
BUCKHORN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
146 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Frio Rv Nr Derby
|
0cfs |
Hondo Ck At Sh 173 Nr Hondo
|
0cfs |
Seco Ck At Rowe Ranch Nr D'Hanis
|
0cfs |
Medina Rv Nr Von Ormy
|
52cfs |
Medina Rv Nr Macdona
|
0cfs |
Nueces Rv At Cotulla
|
0cfs |
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.
Morrow Dam No 3