Blackburn Crossing Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Blackburn Crossing Dam, located in Neches, Texas, is a vital structure built in 1962 for various purposes including recreation, water supply, and others.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 75 feet with a length of 5720 feet, creating a storage capacity of 1,045,000 acre-feet. Situated on the Neches River, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 373,204 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 25,560 acres and serving a drainage area of 847 square miles.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Blackburn Crossing Dam has undergone modifications in 1971 and 1997 to enhance its structural integrity. With a fair condition assessment as of March 2017, the dam poses a moderate risk level according to the Hazard Potential Rating System. Equipped with controlled and uncontrolled outlet gates, the dam also features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 500 feet.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Blackburn Crossing Dam presents an intriguing case study of a multipurpose earth dam serving the communities along the Neches River. With its significant storage capacity and strategic location, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources, supporting recreational activities, and ensuring water supply for the region. As a key infrastructure asset in Texas, ongoing inspections and risk assessments are integral to maintaining the dam's functionality and safeguarding against potential hazards.

Years Modified

1971 - Structural, 1997 - Structural

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

5720

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

NECHES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25560

Hydraulic Height

75

Drainage Area

847

Nid Storage

1045000

Structural Height

75

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 6, Uncontrolled - 1, Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

75
       
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.