Hertel Gss Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hertel Gss, located in Baylor County, Texas, is a private earth dam designed by USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, this dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Brazos River, this structure serves multiple functions including recreation and livestock management. Despite being unregulated by the state and having no enforcement measures in place, Hertel Gss remains a crucial asset for water resource management in the region.

Although lacking a spillway and having a hazard potential labeled as "Not Available," the dam is classified as having a high risk level (2). The structure, with a length of 1370 feet, features a buttress core type and is owned and maintained by a private entity. With no designated inspection frequency or assessment rating, the condition of Hertel Gss is currently not rated. Emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) have not been documented, highlighting potential areas for improvement in safety and risk management protocols.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the impact of dams like Hertel Gss on local ecosystems and water supply, it is essential to prioritize safety and maintenance protocols to mitigate potential risks. With its diverse set of functions and historical significance in the region, Hertel Gss serves as a focal point for discussions on sustainable water management practices and the need for regular monitoring and assessment of aging infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

1370

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR-BRAZOS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

140

Structural Height

11

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.