Lower San Saba River Ws Scs Site 13a Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Harkeyville, Texas, the Lower San Saba River WS SCS Site 13a Dam is a key structure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along Latham Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 75 feet and stretches 912 feet in length, providing vital flood risk reduction for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 4,269 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 197 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 203 feet and outlet gates including a slide and two uncontrolled gates. Despite being classified as having a fair condition assessment as of June 2018, the dam poses a moderate risk level, signaling the importance of ongoing risk management and maintenance efforts. With the TCEQ overseeing state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, the Lower San Saba River WS SCS Site 13a Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for flood control and water resource management in San Saba County, Texas.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the strategic placement and design of this dam, which not only aids in flood risk reduction but also contributes to the overall water management efforts in the region. As a vital piece of infrastructure with a long history of service, the Lower San Saba River WS SCS Site 13a Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proactive water resource planning and management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

912

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

LATHAM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

75

Drainage Area

12.32

Nid Storage

4269

Structural Height

75

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

75
       
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.