Barker Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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.


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Summary

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.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

71900

Dam Height

36.5

River Or Stream

BUFFALO BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

130

Nid Storage

209000

Structural Height

36.5

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

37
       
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.