Bachman Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bachman Lake Dam, located in Dallas, Texas, serves as a crucial water resource for the area.


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Summary

Completed in 1901, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 1800 feet. With a storage capacity of 2547 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 950 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in both water supply and recreational activities in the region. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

The primary purpose of Bachman Lake Dam is for recreation, with water supply being a secondary function. The dam controls the flow of Bachman Branch, a local river or stream, and has a spillway width of 450 feet for uncontrolled release of excess water. The dam underwent hydraulic modifications in 1963 to enhance its functionality. Although the hazard potential and condition assessment are not currently rated, the risk assessment categorizes the dam's risk level as moderate (3). Regular inspections every five years help to monitor the dam's condition and ensure the safety of surrounding communities in case of emergencies.

Overall, Bachman Lake Dam stands as a significant infrastructure for water management and recreational purposes in Dallas, Texas. Its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, coupled with its modern-day functionalities and regulatory oversight, highlights the importance of this earth dam in the local water resource and climate landscape. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of structures like Bachman Lake Dam are essential for sustainable water management practices in the region.

Years Modified

1963 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1901

Dam Length

1800

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

BACHMAN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

12.6

Nid Storage

2547

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
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.