Gross Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gross Lake Dam, located in Erath, Texas, is a private earth dam constructed in 1950 for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 30 feet with a length of 1450 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 526 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 367 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Sycamore Creek and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

Despite being last inspected in 1981, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level (3) and is currently not rated for its condition assessment. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 450 feet wide, offers a safeguard against potential overflow events. With an outlet consisting of one slide gate and three uncontrolled gates, the dam's operational capacity remains intact for water control and management. The dam's presence is crucial for maintaining water resources in the region, highlighting its importance in water supply infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gross Lake Dam serves as a key structure in the water management system of Erath, Texas. Its historical significance as a water supply source, coupled with its moderate risk level and regulatory oversight by the TCEQ, makes it an essential component of the region's water infrastructure. As efforts continue to assess and manage the dam's condition and risk level, its role in sustaining water resources underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring such vital structures for the benefit of the community and the environment.

Year Completed

1950

Dam Length

1450

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

SYCAMORE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

526

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

30
       
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.