Safari Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Safari Lake Dam in Henderson, Texas, stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management, with a primary focus on irrigation.


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Summary

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
       
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.