Briarcliff Dam No 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Briarcliff Dam No 3, located in Travis County, Texas, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.


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Summary

Built in 1966, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 14 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves the purpose of regulating water flow in Cat Creek, with a spillway width of 80 feet to manage excess water during periods of high discharge.

Despite being categorized as having a fair condition assessment, Briarcliff Dam No 3 poses a moderate risk level according to the data available. The dam has been inspected regularly, with the last assessment conducted in October 2017. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulates and inspects the dam to ensure compliance with state standards. While the dam has an uncontrolled outlet gate, the associated risk management measures and emergency action plans are not clearly documented, warranting further attention to ensure the safety and security of the structure and surrounding areas. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Briarcliff Dam No 3 presents an intriguing case study in the management and maintenance of essential infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

335

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

CAT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

14

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.