Rusk City Lake Dam

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Rusk City Lake Dam, located in Rusk, Texas, serves as an essential resource for irrigation and recreation in the area. Owned privately, the dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is primarily an earth dam type with a height of 36 feet and a length of 550 feet, providing storage of up to 298 acre-feet of water for agricultural purposes.

With College Creek running nearby, the dam has a spillway width of 30 feet and a maximum discharge of 1 cubic foot per second. In recent years, the dam underwent hydraulic modifications in 2017 to enhance its performance. Despite being classified as having a fair condition assessment, the dam has a moderate risk level, indicating potential hazards that are being managed to maintain safety. The surrounding area covers 22.5 acres with a drainage area of 0.7 square miles, making it a vital water resource for the community.

Overall, Rusk City Lake Dam plays a crucial role in supporting local agriculture and providing recreational opportunities. With its strategic location and necessary regulatory oversight, the dam continues to be a significant asset for water management in the Cherokee County area. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and management of structures like Rusk City Lake Dam are essential to ensure sustainable water utilization for current and future generations.