Southwest Laterals Ws Scs Site 6a Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Southwest Laterals WS SCS Site 6a Dam, located in McCulloch County, Texas, is a vital structure designed by USDA NRCS to primarily reduce flood risks in the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1987, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 39 feet and has a structural height of 50 feet, with a length of 1650 feet. It serves the important purpose of flood risk reduction and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

The dam, situated on Salt Creek, has a normal storage capacity of 283 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 8823 cubic feet per second. With an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates for efficient water management, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. Despite being rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, the dam's risk potential is considered moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its effectiveness in mitigating flood risks.

In light of its significance in flood risk management, Southwest Laterals WS SCS Site 6a Dam serves as a key infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region. With a history of construction dating back to 1987 and ongoing regulatory oversight by TCEQ, the dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of government agencies in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

1650

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29

Hydraulic Height

39

Drainage Area

8.06

Nid Storage

1980

Structural Height

50

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

50
       
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.