John Polk Gss Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

John Polk Gss Dam, located in Pittsburg, Texas, is a privately owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS to primarily serve as a flood risk reduction measure along the TR-Big Cypress Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1985, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and stretches 385 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet. While not regulated by the state, this dam is subject to regular inspections and permitting requirements to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite its relatively modest size, John Polk Gss Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the Camp County area. The dam's buttress core design and lack of a spillway highlight its reliance on sound engineering principles to manage water flow and protect downstream communities. With a risk assessment rating of "High (2)," it underscores the importance of proactive risk management measures to maintain the dam's integrity and safeguard against potential hazards.

As a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure, John Polk Gss Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and government agencies in addressing flood control needs. Its strategic location, sturdy construction, and operational capacity make it a noteworthy example for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of engineering, regulatory oversight, and environmental stewardship in managing water resources for public safety and economic resilience.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

385

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-BIG CYPRESS CREE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

77

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.