Cougar Run Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Travis, Texas, Cougar Run Dam stands as a crucial water resource infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Built in 1979, this Rockfill dam on the TR-Bull Creek serves a primary purpose that goes beyond flood control or water supply, marking it as a unique entity in the water management landscape. With a height of 58 feet and a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, Cougar Run Dam plays a vital role in regulating the flow of water in the region.

Despite its significance, the dam's condition assessment reveals a poor rating, indicating the need for immediate attention and maintenance. The inspection frequency of every two years underscores the ongoing monitoring efforts to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's spillway, with a width of 75 feet, is uncontrolled, posing potential risks in case of overflow. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, Cougar Run Dam demands proactive risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community and environment from any potential hazards.

Cougar Run Dam's positioning within the Galveston District and its association with the TR-Bull Creek highlights its interconnectedness with the broader water resource management framework. As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into the complexities of managing dams in Texas, Cougar Run Dam emerges as a focal point for discussions on infrastructure resilience and sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

58

River Or Stream

TR-BULL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Hydraulic Height

58

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

58

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

58
       
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.