Lake Cliff Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Cliff Dam, located in Dallas, Texas, is a vital structure designed for flood risk reduction along the Trinity River.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1914, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and stretches 300 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 281 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 77 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1300 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a crucial barrier to mitigate flooding in the area.

The dam, primarily owned and regulated by the local government, is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The condition assessment in 2014 deemed it to be in fair condition, with a moderate risk level assigned. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway, consisting of two outlets, and has undergone modifications in 1991 to reinforce its foundation. Despite its age, Lake Cliff Dam continues to play a key role in flood risk management and offers recreational opportunities for the local community.

With its strategic location and historical significance, Lake Cliff Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, ensuring the continued functionality and safety of such critical infrastructure will be paramount to safeguarding communities and natural ecosystems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Years Modified

1991 - Foundation

Year Completed

1914

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-TRINITY RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

281

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

26
       
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.