Morrow Dam No 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morrow Dam No 4 is a privately owned structure located in Frio, Texas, built in 1968 for the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

With a height of 14 feet and a length of 1446 feet, this earth dam on Buckhorn Creek provides a storage capacity of 252 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20 acres. Despite being a non-federal structure, Morrow Dam No 4 is permitted and inspected by the state of Texas, ensuring its safe operation for irrigation and water supply needs in the area.

This dam, with a buttress core type and unknown foundation, contributes to the management of water resources in the region, supporting agriculture and local communities. Although it lacks a spillway, Morrow Dam No 4 is designed to withstand high-risk situations, with a hazard potential of "Not Available" and a risk assessment rating of High (2). The structure plays a crucial role in water management along Buckhorn Creek, showcasing the importance of private ownership in maintaining and regulating water resources in Texas.

As a significant component of the water infrastructure in Frio County, Morrow Dam No 4 stands as a testament to the collaboration between private owners and state regulators in ensuring the safety and efficiency of water supply systems. With its strategic location and substantial storage capacity, this dam serves as a vital resource for irrigation and water supply purposes, highlighting the ongoing efforts to manage water resources effectively in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

1446

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

BUCKHORN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

252

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.