Fairfield Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Fairfield Lake Dam in Freestone, Texas, is a privately-owned structure completed in 1969 and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
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Summary
Situated on Big Brown Creek, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 77 feet and spans a length of 4,350 feet, with a storage capacity of 70,840 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other," indicating a versatile role in managing water resources in the region.
With a satisfactory condition assessment as of 2014, Fairfield Lake Dam boasts a spillway width of 856 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 62,260 cubic feet per second. The dam features a combination of outlet gates, including controlled, slide, and uncontrolled mechanisms for water release. The surrounding surface area of 2,350 acres and a drainage area of 34 square miles indicate the dam's significance in water resource management and flood control efforts.
Fairfield Lake Dam's location within the Fort Worth District and its association with Big Brown Creek make it a crucial component of the region's water infrastructure. With a strong regulatory framework in place and a history of successful inspections, this dam plays a vital role in water supply, flood protection, and environmental stewardship in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fairfield Lake Dam represents a prime example of responsible water management and infrastructure development in Texas.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
4350 |
Dam Height |
77 |
River Or Stream |
BIG BROWN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2350 |
Hydraulic Height |
72 |
Drainage Area |
34 |
Nid Storage |
70840 |
Structural Height |
72 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1, Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
77 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Trinity Rv At Hwy 287 Nr Cayuga
|
1890cfs |
Tehuacana Ck Nr Streetman
|
2cfs |
Trinity Rv Nr Oakwood
|
3190cfs |
Upper Keechi Ck Nr Oakwood
|
18cfs |
Trinity Rv At Trinidad
|
2210cfs |
Big Ck Nr Freestone
|
2cfs |
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.
Fairfield Lake Dam