Pipes Dam No 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pipes Dam No 1, located in Cherokee, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1953, this dam stands at a height of 12.3 feet and has a length of 680 feet, providing a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Situated on TR-Beans Creek, Pipes Dam No 1 serves as a vital resource for water management and conservation in the region. Its uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 60 feet, helps regulate water flow and prevent flooding during times of heavy rainfall. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been rated for its condition and maintenance practices, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. With its strategic location and important functions, Pipes Dam No 1 plays a crucial role in supporting local water resources and climate resilience efforts.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the details of Pipes Dam No 1 offer valuable insights into the infrastructure and management of water systems in Texas. The dam's association with fire protection, livestock, and small fish ponds highlights its diverse uses and importance in sustaining local ecosystems and agricultural activities. By understanding the design, purpose, and regulatory oversight of Pipes Dam No 1, enthusiasts can appreciate the complexities and challenges involved in maintaining water infrastructure while striving for sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

680

Dam Height

12.3

River Or Stream

TR-BEANS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

12.3

Drainage Area

0.84

Nid Storage

36

Structural Height

12.3

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

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.