Hamrick Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hamrick Lake Dam, located in Smith County, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1949, this dam stands at a height of 26 feet and spans a length of 450 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 1,115 acre-feet and a normal storage of 306 acre-feet. The dam is situated on a tributary of Prairie Creek and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), with regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of April 2021, the dam poses a moderate risk (rated 3 out of 5) due to its uncontrolled spillway and limited hazard potential information available. The dam has undergone modifications in 1975, with two uncontrolled and two valve outlet gates. It is notable for its scenic location and recreational opportunities, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the surrounding area. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, Hamrick Lake Dam continues to be a focal point for both local residents and visitors seeking outdoor enjoyment in the heart of Texas.

Years Modified

1975 - Other

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF PRAIRIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

44

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

4.55

Nid Storage

1115

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.