Amon G Carter Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Amon G Carter Dam, located in Montague, Texas, is a vital structure designed by FREESE AND NICHOLS, HENNINGSON, DURHAMAND, RICHARDSON, INC to regulate the flow of Big Sandy Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1956, this earth dam stands at 80 feet tall and spans 2540 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 58,050 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for recreation purposes, but also contributes to water supply needs in the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Amon G Carter Dam underwent structural modifications in 1983. With a satisfactory condition assessment as of January 2018, the dam has a moderate risk rating of 3. Equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and a combination of slide and uncontrolled gates, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 150,460 cubic feet per second. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in July 2010, ensuring preparedness for any potential risks or hazards.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Amon G Carter Dam to be a fascinating engineering feat, blending functionality with recreational opportunities in the picturesque setting of Montague, Texas. With its strategic location on Big Sandy Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities. Maintaining a balance between recreation and water supply, this earth dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.
Years Modified |
1983 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Length |
2540 |
Dam Height |
80 |
River Or Stream |
BIG SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1540 |
Hydraulic Height |
80 |
Drainage Area |
100 |
Nid Storage |
58050 |
Structural Height |
80 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 3, Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
80 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Amon G Carter Dam
Lk Amon G Carter Nr Bowie