Hortense Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hortense Lake Dam, located in Polk County, Texas, was completed in 1955 and serves primarily as a recreational structure.


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Summary

This Earth dam, with a height of 18 feet and a length of 800 feet, impounds the waters of Bear Creek to create a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. Despite its modest size, the dam presents a high risk level (2) due to its current condition being not rated.

Owned privately, Hortense Lake Dam is not regulated by the state and has no designated enforcement agency overseeing its operation. It lacks a spillway and has no locks, making it a unique structure in terms of design. With a focus on recreation, the dam provides opportunities for water enthusiasts to enjoy the 10-acre surface area created by its impoundment. However, the lack of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and risk assessment management measures may pose challenges in case of emergencies.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Hortense Lake Dam a fascinating subject for studying the intersection of man-made structures with natural water systems. Its high risk designation and lack of key safety features raise questions about the effectiveness of its current management and highlight the importance of comprehensive risk assessment and emergency preparedness in dam operations. The dam's location in a scenic area of Texas adds to its appeal for those interested in exploring the impact of human activities on water resources and the environment.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR-BEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.