Big Sandy Creek WS SCS Site 14a Dam, located in Wise County, Texas, is a crucial structure designed by the USDA NRCS in 1997 for flood risk reduction along the Big Sandy Creek.
Wind
Humidity
This earth dam with a height of 33 feet and a length of 1024 feet serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, providing a storage capacity of 440 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1320 cubic feet per second. The dam is state-regulated by TCEQ, with inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
Despite being categorized as having a moderate risk level, with a hazard potential and condition assessment currently not available, the Big Sandy Creek WS SCS Site 14a Dam plays a critical role in managing floodwaters and protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation. The uncontrolled spillway and four outlet gates allow for controlled water release during high flow events, while the dam's buttress core and rock-soil foundation provide structural stability. With a surface area of 14 acres and a drainage area of 0.88 square miles, this dam is a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Big Sandy Creek WS SCS Site 14a Dam represents a key piece of Texas's flood risk reduction strategy, with its design and construction overseen by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. While the dam's risk level is moderate, ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight by TCEQ ensure its continued functionality and safety. As part of the broader network of dams and water management structures in the region, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting communities and ecosystems from the impacts of flooding and managing water resources in an efficient and sustainable manner.
Year Completed |
1997 |
Dam Length |
1024 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
0.88 |
Nid Storage |
440 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 4 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
33 |