Sanderson Canyon Ws Scs Site 7 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: February 11, 2026
Located in Sanderson, Texas, the Sanderson Canyon WS SCS Site 7 Dam is a crucial structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the Threemile Draw river.
Summary
Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 52 feet and a length of 2905 feet, with a storage capacity of 3920 acre-feet. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates for efficient water management.
Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Sanderson Canyon WS SCS Site 7 Dam undergoes regular inspections, with its condition assessed as satisfactory as of December 2016. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam is equipped to handle a maximum discharge of 37,187 cubic feet per second. While its hazard potential is not available, the dam's design and construction, along with its emergency action plan, ensure the safety of nearby communities in the event of a flood emergency.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Sanderson Canyon WS SCS Site 7 Dam serves as a prime example of effective flood risk reduction infrastructure in Texas. With its strategic location and design features, including a reliable spillway and outlet gates, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow along the Threemile Draw river. As a state-regulated and inspected structure, it demonstrates a commitment to maintaining safety standards and protecting surrounding areas from potential flood hazards.
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15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
2905 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
THREEMILE DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
45 |
Hydraulic Height |
52 |
Drainage Area |
8.12 |
Nid Storage |
3920 |
Structural Height |
53 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
53 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Sanderson Canyon Ws Scs Site 7 Dam