Cottonwood Creek Detention Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cottonwood Creek Detention Dam, located in Hays, Texas, is a crucial local government-owned structure designed to regulate water flow and manage potential flood risks in the area.


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Summary

This dam, with a height of 13 feet and a storage capacity of 650 acre-feet, plays a significant role in maintaining the safety and security of the surrounding community. While specific details about its construction year and purposes are not provided, its state-regulated status and active monitoring by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) ensure that it meets necessary safety standards.

Despite its critical role in water resource management, Cottonwood Creek Detention Dam is currently labeled as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment, with a high risk potential (2) identified for the structure. The dam features a single outlet gate and does not have a spillway, indicating a more straightforward design compared to larger dams. While details about its inspection frequency and emergency preparedness are not specified, the dam's location within the Galveston District highlights its importance in mitigating flood risks in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring the condition and risk management measures of Cottonwood Creek Detention Dam is crucial for ensuring the safety and resilience of the local community in the face of changing environmental conditions.

As an essential part of the local infrastructure, Cottonwood Creek Detention Dam serves as a key player in water management efforts within the region. With a focus on maintaining safety and mitigating potential risks, this dam stands as a testament to the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and the need for proactive measures to safeguard communities against natural disasters. As enthusiasts in the field, staying informed about the condition and management of Cottonwood Creek Detention Dam is vital for understanding its role in the broader context of water resource management and climate resilience in Texas.

Dam Height

13

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

650

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Nid Height

13
       
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.