Panola Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Panola Lake Dam, located in Panola, Texas, was completed in 1948 and serves as a vital water resource in the area.


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Summary

The earth dam, with a height of 25 feet and a length of 750 feet, was built on Stephenson Creek and is primarily used for purposes other than flood control or hydropower generation. With a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels and providing essential water supplies to the local community.

Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Panola Lake Dam poses a high risk, as indicated by its hazard potential rating of "Not Available" and a risk assessment of "High (2)". It is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to take note of the dam's condition, as it has not been rated and lacks essential emergency preparedness measures such as an emergency action plan. Additionally, the dam does not have a spillway, which can pose challenges during heavy rainfall events and increase the risk of flooding in the surrounding areas.

As a key structure in the Fort Worth District, Panola Lake Dam's significance lies in its storage capacity and role in water management. Despite its age and potential risks, the dam continues to provide essential services to the community and highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

STEPHENSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

250

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.