Cowper Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Red River, Texas, Cowper Lake Dam stands as a testament to water resource management and climate adaptation efforts.


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Summary

Built in 1975 by the USDA NRCS, this private-owned earth dam serves various purposes including fire protection, stock and small fish pond management, recreation, and more. With a height of 28 feet and a length of 658 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 145 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Situated on TR-Big Pine Creek, Cowper Lake Dam is under the jurisdiction of the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. While not state-regulated, the dam undergoes regular inspections by the state, ensuring its structural integrity and safety. Despite its hazard potential being labeled as 'not available', the risk assessment categorizes it as high (2), highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. With no spillway, the dam relies on a single outlet gate for water release.

In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cowper Lake Dam serves as a prime example of how infrastructure can be leveraged for multiple benefits. From water storage to recreational opportunities, this earth dam embodies the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship, showcasing the intricate balance needed to sustainably manage our water resources in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

658

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-BIG PINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

145

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.