Richards Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Richards Lake Dam, located in Freestone, Texas, was completed in 1965 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, standing at 13 feet tall and 770 feet long, is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type. It has a storage capacity of 301 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 14.7 acres.

Despite its recreational focus, the dam poses a high risk (level 2) according to risk assessment data. While it has not been rated for its condition, the hazard potential is not available. The dam does not have a spillway and features one outlet gate. The structure is privately owned and not regulated by the state, although it undergoes periodic inspections and permitting processes.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Richards Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. Its location in the Fort Worth District and association with the Upper Keechi Creek make it an important site for understanding the intersection of water infrastructure, recreational use, and potential hazards. With its unique design features and historical significance, Richards Lake Dam offers a rich opportunity for further exploration and study.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

770

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR-UPPER KEECHI CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14.7

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

301

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.