Murvaul Bayou Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Murvaul Bayou Dam, located in Gary, Texas, is a private structure regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).


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Summary

Built in 1956, this earth dam stands at a height of 46 feet and spans 9000 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 129,000 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing opportunities for water-based activities in the scenic surroundings of Murvaul Creek.

With a spillway width of 550 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 49,101 cubic feet per second, the dam has undergone structural modifications in 1991 to ensure its integrity. The latest condition assessment in April 2021 rated the dam as 'fair,' highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. Despite its moderate hazard potential, the dam remains a crucial water resource for the region, supporting not only recreation but also water supply needs.

Managed by private owners, Murvaul Bayou Dam showcases the collaborative efforts of designers and engineers from Forrest and Cotton, KSA Engineers. Its presence underscores the significance of sustainable water resource management in balancing the demands of recreation and water supply while ensuring the safety and resilience of critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Years Modified

1991 - Structural

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

9000

Dam Height

46

River Or Stream

MURVAUL CREEK (MURVAUL BAYOU)

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3720

Hydraulic Height

46

Drainage Area

115

Nid Storage

129000

Structural Height

51

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

51
       
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.