Dobbin Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dobbin Lake Dam in Montgomery, Texas, stands as a private water resource structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1968, this Earth-type dam rises 17 feet in height along the TR-LAKE CREEK river or stream. Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam's state-regulated status ensures ongoing inspection, permitting, and enforcement for safety and environmental compliance. With a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet, Dobbin Lake Dam provides critical water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite its modest size and lack of spillway, Dobbin Lake Dam poses a high (2) risk potential according to hazard assessments, although the specific reasons are not explicitly detailed. The dam's condition remains unassessed and its emergency action plan (EAP) status is unknown, leaving potential gaps in preparedness for any unforeseen events. With no inundation maps prepared and limited information on risk management measures, there may be room for improvement in ensuring the dam's safety and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions and water resource demands.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts intrigued by the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship will find Dobbin Lake Dam a compelling case study. This private dam's role in providing recreational opportunities while also facing challenges in risk management and emergency preparedness highlights the complex dynamics at play in managing water resources in a changing climate. Further research and engagement with relevant agencies could shed light on the potential resilience of this structure and the broader implications for water management in the region.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TR-LAKE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

135

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.