Safari Lake Dam in Henderson, Texas, stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management, with a primary focus on irrigation.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1950 by designers Velvin & Weeks, this earth-type dam boasts a height of 27 feet and a storage capacity of 1172 acre-feet, serving the local community with vital water resources for agricultural purposes. The dam also offers recreational opportunities on its 47-acre surface area, making it a multifaceted resource for both humans and wildlife.
Maintained by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Safari Lake Dam underwent structural modifications in 2016 to ensure its continued safety and reliability. With a fair condition assessment as of May 2017, the dam's emergency action plan is up to date, although its hazard potential is not available. The dam's spillway, with a width of 70 feet, controls the maximum discharge of 1499 cubic feet per second, mitigating flood risks in the area and contributing to a moderate risk assessment rating.
As a critical infrastructure asset in the region, Safari Lake Dam plays a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. Its strategic location on Kile Branch, a tributary in the Fort Worth District, underscores its importance in sustaining the local ecosystem and supporting agricultural activities. With ongoing inspections and enforcement measures in place, Safari Lake Dam stands as a model for responsible dam management, balancing the needs of irrigation with environmental protection and public safety.
Years Modified |
2016 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
585 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
KILE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
47 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
1172 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Trinity Rv At Hwy 287 Nr Cayuga
|
1680cfs |
Trinity Rv At Trinidad
|
1890cfs |
Neches Rv Nr Neches
|
337cfs |
Trinity Rv Nr Oakwood
|
2660cfs |
Cedar Ck Nr Kemp
|
12cfs |
Mud Ck Nr Jacksonville
|
123cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp Meisenbach
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Staff Cabins
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Camp Trevor-Rees-Jones
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Gum Ridge
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Cypress Knee
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Elm Flats
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