Joyce Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Joyce Lake Dam, located in Anderson, Texas, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes along the Bassett Creek.


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Summary

Constructed in 1953, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 425 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is deemed to be in fair condition as of the latest assessment in April 2021.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Joyce Lake Dam has a regulatory framework in place for inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. While the dam currently poses a high risk level, measures are in place to mitigate potential hazards. The structure lacks a spillway and is equipped with a single outlet gate, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Joyce Lake Dam serves as a significant feature in the irrigation infrastructure of the region, providing essential water storage for agricultural purposes. With its historical significance dating back to the 1950s, the dam stands as a testament to the engineering achievements of its time. As efforts continue to manage and safeguard this vital resource, the dam's role in water management and conservation remains crucial for the local community and ecosystem.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

BASSET CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

200

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.