Buckner Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buckner Dam, located in Pine Grove, Texas, on Gum Creek, is a vital structure built in 1957 for both recreational and water supply purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 75 feet and a length of 2700 feet, Buckner Dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 49,500 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 25,670 acre-feet. The dam's earth design with a stone core rests on a soil foundation, making it a key component for water management in Cherokee County.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Buckner Dam has been inspected regularly, with the most recent assessment in May 2018 indicating a fair condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a combination of uncontrolled and valve outlets for efficient water release. Despite being classified as having a moderate risk level, Buckner Dam plays a crucial role in flood control, water storage, and recreational activities in the area. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, Buckner Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management in Texas.

Years Modified

1987 - Structural

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

2700

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

GUM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1325

Hydraulic Height

75

Drainage Area

41

Nid Storage

49500

Structural Height

75

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

75
       
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.