Couch Gss Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Couch Gss is a private dam located in Ellis County, Texas, along the TR-COLORADO RIVER.


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Summary

Built in 1977 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 487 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond, with a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet.

Despite its relatively small size, Couch Gss poses a high risk (2) according to the data available, although its hazard potential and condition assessment are marked as "Not Available" and "Not Rated" respectively. The dam does not have a spillway and is not regulated by the state, but it does have inspection and permitting requirements in place. This structure, while not a major water resource, serves important purposes for the local community and wildlife.

As a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Couch Gss provides a glimpse into the lesser-known dams that play a crucial role in providing water for various uses. Its location along the Colorado River tributary and its construction by the NRCS highlight the interconnectedness of water infrastructure across different agencies and the importance of maintaining and monitoring these structures for safety and sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

487

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-COLORADO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

55

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.