Ratliff Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mill Pond Dam Dyer Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ratliff Lake Dam, located in San Saba, Texas, is a privately owned structure that serves a vital purpose in managing water resources in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1959, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 158 acre-feet, making it a critical component in the local water supply system. Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for its condition, indicating a need for further assessment and potential maintenance to ensure its continued functionality.
Situated on Rabbit Creek, Ratliff Lake Dam plays a key role in flood control and water management in the region. With a surface area of 14 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 158 acre-feet, the dam helps regulate water levels and mitigate the risk of flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. While it lacks a spillway, the dam's design and buttress core type contribute to its structural integrity, although its hazard potential is currently listed as "Not Available" and the risk assessment indicates a high risk level of 2.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Ratliff Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of infrastructure, environmental management, and public safety. With its historical significance and ongoing role in water management, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical water infrastructure for the benefit of the local community and the surrounding ecosystem. Further evaluation and potential risk management measures may be needed to ensure the continued safety and effectiveness of Ratliff Lake Dam in the face of changing climate conditions and evolving water resource challenges.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
RABBIT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
158 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
San Saba Rv At San Saba
|
140cfs |
Colorado Rv Nr San Saba
|
211cfs |
Pecan Bayou Nr Mullin
|
2cfs |
Llano Rv At Llano
|
263cfs |
San Saba Rv Nr Brady
|
3cfs |
Lampasas Rv Nr Kempner
|
33cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Ratliff Lake Dam