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The Watershed Rehabilitation Program (REHAB) helps project sponsors rehabilitate aging dams that are reaching the end of their design life and/or no longer meet federal or state safety criteria or performance standards. Since 1948, NRCS has assisted local sponsors in constructing over 11,850 dams.
Nestled in Ellis County, Texas, the Chambers Creek Watershed includes a network of flood‑control dams built in the late 1950s by the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). These earthen dams—particularly Site 10 and Site 11—are critical for moderating streamflow along the Long Branch tributary, offering flood risk reduction for communities such as Waxahachie and Sardis. Dam rehabilitation was recently completed in May 2026. Both dams play an essential role in reducing peak flows, thereby minimizing flood risks during heavy rainfall events. The extensive rehab work on Site 11 with modern spillway designs, structural reinforcing, and updated safety protocols, demonstrate strategic investment toward watershed resilience and downstream safety. Project Sponsors: Ellis County and the Ellis Prairie Soil & Water Conservation District.
Current Watershed Rehabilitation Program Investments
The Watershed REHAB program provides assistance to local project sponsors to:
These rehabilitation efforts, authorized by Public Law 83-566 and 78-534, address critical public health and safety concerns should a dam failure occur.
Since 1948, the Natural Resources Conservation Service has assisted local sponsors in constructing over 11,845 dams.
BENEFITS
Across the Nation, watershed REHAB projects provide over $2.2 billion in reduced flooding and erosion damage while improving wildlife habitat, recreation, water quality and supply for an estimated 47 million people. These projects also provide economic growth and opportunity for rural communities.
Dams are silent protectors, located in remote locals, that protect lives and property downstream. All have a lifespan that requires consistent oversight to ensure they continue to meet state and federal design, safety, and performance criteria. NRCS Watershed REHAB Program provides local sponsors with technical and financial assistance to address concerns before they become a liability.
DamWatch assists in monitoring dams across 47 states, including Puerto Rico, and provides web-based monitoring of dams during rainfall, snowmelt, or seismic events.
Watershed project sponsors represent interests of the local community in federally assisted watershed projects. Sponsors submit a request for financial assistance to NRCS. When funding is allocated, the sponsor and NRCS enter into an agreement that defines the roles and responsibilities of each party to complete the rehabilitation project.
A watershed plan is developed for each project to address environmental impacts, costs, benefits, planned conservation practices, and the responsibilities of involved parties. A variety of agencies and organizations can assist sponsors with developing a plan.
NRCS provides technical and financial assistance to sponsors and assists them with the planning, design, and construction of the projects.
For more information on Watershed REHAB Program, please contact your local NRCS office.
Contact your local NRCS Watershed Program manager for assistance:
Step-by-step guide for Sponsors who have entered into an agreement with NRCS
Resources for contractors working with sponsors on NRCS Watershed Program projects
The National Watershed Program Manual provides policy, guidance and suggestions for working through the various stages of watershed projects, from working with potential sponsors to providing project rehabilitation…
Dam owners shoulder the responsibility for the safety and proper operation of their dams, including regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness.
Contact your local service center to start your application.
