Barnum Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Polk, Texas, the Barnum Lake Dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and serves as a vital resource for recreational purposes since its completion in 1960.
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Summary
This private-owned Earth dam, with a height of 13 feet and a length of 660 feet, creates a picturesque lake that covers a surface area of 10 acres. Despite its modest size, the dam provides a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 50 acre-feet, making it a valuable asset for water enthusiasts.
Situated on TR-CANEY CREEK and managed by the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the Barnum Lake Dam is not only a popular spot for outdoor activities but also plays a crucial role in flood control and water management in the region. The dam's unique buttress core design ensures its structural integrity, while the absence of a spillway and limited hazard potential highlight the careful planning and maintenance that go into its operation. With a risk assessment rating of "High (2)", the dam is closely monitored to ensure the safety of nearby communities and the environment.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the Barnum Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices. With its scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and essential role in flood control, this dam stands as a symbol of resilience and cooperation between private ownership, government agencies, and the local community in safeguarding water resources for generations to come.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
660 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CANEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Neches Rv Nr Diboll
|
830cfs |
Neches Rv Nr Rockland
|
1100cfs |
Long King Ck At Livingston
|
13cfs |
Kickapoo Ck At Onalaska
|
17cfs |
Trinity Rv Nr Goodrich
|
3350cfs |
Neches Rv Nr Town Bluff
|
3780cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Barnum Lake Dam