Hughes Lake Dam, located in Washington County, Texas, was completed in 1955 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
Wind
Humidity
The earth dam, with a height of 20 feet and capacity of 700 acre-feet, is privately owned and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The dam sits on TR-New Year Creek and is part of the Galveston District, overseen by Congressman Michael T. McCaul.
Despite being classified as "Not Rated" in condition assessment, Hughes Lake Dam poses a high risk level (2) based on its hazard potential. The dam does not have a spillway, and there are no associated structures or locks. With a primary purpose of fire protection and recreation, the dam's normal storage capacity is 260 acre-feet. Although the dam is not federally owned, funded, or constructed, it is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Hughes Lake Dam an intriguing subject for study due to its unique design and purpose in the region. The dam's location on TR-New Year Creek adds to its ecological significance, providing water storage for various activities while also posing potential risks in case of failure. The dam's history, state regulation, and lack of federal involvement offer a rich narrative for those interested in the intersection of water management, infrastructure, and environmental policy in Texas.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NEW YEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
700 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Brazos Rv Nr Hempstead
|
1800cfs |
Yegua Ck Nr Somerville
|
0cfs |
Davidson Ck Nr Lyons
|
0cfs |
Mill Ck Nr Bellville
|
8cfs |
Bee Ck Trib A At College Station
|
0cfs |
Bee Ck Main At College Station
|
0cfs |