Deer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Lake Dam, located in Montgomery County, Texas, was completed in 1963 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam is an Earth type structure with a height of 20 feet and a length of 970 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 217 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Despite having no spillway, the dam is considered to have a high risk potential (2 on a scale of 1-4). However, the hazard potential is not available, and the condition assessment has not been rated. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in February 1983. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, and there is no information available on whether the EAP meets guidelines or if inundation maps have been prepared.

Overall, Deer Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, as it highlights the complexities of managing a dam for recreational purposes while ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory requirements. With its high risk potential and limited information on emergency preparedness, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to prevent potential hazards and ensure the safety of communities downstream.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

970

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-MOUND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

217

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.