Whiddon Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whiddon Lake Dam in Texas, completed in 1958, stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and a commitment to recreation.


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Summary

This private-owned Earth dam, with a hydraulic height of 16 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for water enthusiasts. Situated on the Clear Branch stream in Shelby County, this dam has a maximum storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and a normal storage of 50 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 9 acres.

Despite its age, Whiddon Lake Dam remains in good condition, with a hazard potential rating of "Not Available" and a risk assessment of "High (2)". While lacking a spillway, the dam boasts a single outlet gate for controlled water release. With no associated structures and no state regulation, this dam serves as a peaceful haven for outdoor activities without the burden of excessive oversight. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Whiddon Lake Dam offers a glimpse into the delicate balance between human intervention and natural preservation in a picturesque setting.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

CLEAR BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

58

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.