South Nichols Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South Nichols Lake Dam, located in Henderson, Texas, was completed in 1965 and serves as a vital recreational resource for the local community.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 19 feet with a length of 975 feet, this earth dam on Gum Creek provides a storage capacity of 137 acre-feet, making it an essential water resource in the region. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition and is inspected regularly to ensure its safety.

While South Nichols Lake Dam does not have a spillway, it does have an outlet gate to manage water levels. The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, offering a surface area of 18 acres for activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. However, with a high hazard potential rating and limited risk management measures in place, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the dam itself.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, South Nichols Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable dam management practices. With the potential for increased flooding events and changing water availability, it is crucial for dam owners and regulatory agencies to prioritize safety and resilience. By staying proactive in monitoring and addressing potential risks, South Nichols Lake Dam can continue to provide valuable recreational opportunities while safeguarding the surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

975

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

GUM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

137

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.