Hickory Springs Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hickory Springs Lake Dam, located in Polk County, Texas, is a privately owned structure built in 1965 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 17 feet, creates Hickory Springs Lake with a storage capacity of 155 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Little Hickory Creek and has a surface area of 10 acres, offering a serene setting for outdoor activities.

Despite being a non-federally regulated dam, it is subject to state permitting and inspection requirements. The dam does not have a spillway and is classified as a high-risk structure. The last inspection took place in April 1999, and the condition assessment has not been rated. With its scenic surroundings and important role in water storage for recreational use, Hickory Springs Lake Dam serves as a vital component of the local ecosystem and provides a valuable resource for the community to enjoy.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Hickory Springs Lake Dam showcases the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for both safety and environmental reasons. Understanding the risk assessment and management measures for dams like this can help ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources and recreational opportunities. Hickory Springs Lake Dam stands as a reminder of the intricate balance between human activities and the natural environment, highlighting the need for responsible stewardship of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

330

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

LITTLE HICKORY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

1.52

Nid Storage

155

Structural Height

17

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

17
       
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.