Barker Dam, located in Harris County, Texas, was completed in 1945 by the US Army Corps of Engineers for flood risk reduction along Buffalo Bayou. The gravity dam stands at 36.5 feet tall and has a storage capacity of 209,000 acre-feet. Despite its ability to significantly reduce flood risks, large storm events like Hurricane Harvey in 2017 can still overwhelm the reservoir, leading to potential flooding in surrounding communities and watersheds. USACE has conducted risk assessments on Barker Dam, categorizing the threat as "high" due to the consequences of a potential failure on downstream populations.

To manage risks associated with Barker Dam, USACE operates the dam according to a water control manual and collaborates with various agencies for real-time monitoring and decision-making during extreme events. The construction of a new outlet structure and ongoing rehabilitation efforts on concrete spillways aim to enhance dam safety and stability. Additionally, USACE is conducting the Buffalo Bayou Resiliency and Tributary Study to evaluate further measures for reducing flood risks upstream and downstream of Barker Dam. Regular inspections and risk reassessments ensure readiness for emergency responses and communication with local and state authorities in case of any performance issues or emergencies.