South Metric Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South Metric Dam, located in Austin, Texas, is a vital structure owned by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).


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Summary

This earth dam, designed by FREESE & NICHOLS, serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond. With a hydraulic height of 12 feet and a length of 385 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of TR-LITTLE WALNUT CREEK, with a drainage area of 0.7 square miles.

Despite not having a rated condition assessment, South Metric Dam has undergone modifications in 2011 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 56 feet and two uncontrolled outlet gates. The dam has a storage capacity of 57 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2,149 cubic feet per second, making it a significant asset for water resource management in the area. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, emphasizing the importance of diligent monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding community.

Years Modified

2011 - Hydraulic

Dam Length

385

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE WALNUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

57

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.