House Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

House Lake Dam, located in Erath, Texas, is a private earth dam constructed in 1943 by CHILDRESS AND RECER for the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 1000 feet, with a storage capacity of 1000 acre-feet. Situated on the East Bosque River, the dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite being last inspected in 1984, the dam is considered to have a high risk potential, with a hazard rating of 2. The spillway type is listed as "None", with one outlet gate present. The condition assessment and Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status are marked as "Not Rated" and "Not Available" respectively, highlighting potential areas for improvement in terms of safety and risk management. Although the dam does not have USACE involvement, its location and purpose make it a crucial structure for water resource management in the region.

Overall, House Lake Dam serves as a key infrastructure for irrigation in the area, but its high risk potential underscores the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is essential that such structures are closely monitored and updated to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the sustainability of water supply systems. Water resource and climate enthusiasts should closely follow developments related to House Lake Dam to promote resilience and adaptation in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

1943

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

EAST BOSQUE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

31

Drainage Area

15.57

Nid Storage

1000

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.