Big Sandy Creek Ws Scs Site 1a Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Big Sandy Creek WS SCS Site 1a Dam in Clay County, Texas, is a vital water resource structure managed by the local government and the Natural Resources Conservation Service.


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Summary

Completed in 1984, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock and small fish pond, and fish and wildlife pond, with a primary focus on enhancing fish and wildlife habitat in the area. With a height of 33 feet and a length of 770 feet, the dam stores 527 acre-feet of water and covers a surface area of 14 acres within a drainage area of 1.25 square miles.

Despite its importance, the dam lacks a spillway and has not been rated for its condition, posing a potential risk to downstream areas in the event of a failure. The lack of an Emergency Action Plan and updated contact information raises concerns about the preparedness for emergencies. With a high risk rating of 2, it is crucial for authorities to conduct regular inspections and implement risk management measures to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the dam in protecting the surrounding environment and wildlife.

Overall, the Big Sandy Creek WS SCS Site 1a Dam stands as a valuable asset for water conservation and wildlife preservation in the region. However, proactive measures must be taken to address the identified risks and ensure the continued functionality and safety of the dam for the benefit of the local community and ecosystem.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

770

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-BIG SANDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

1.25

Nid Storage

527

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

33
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.