Garner Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Garner Lake Dam, located in Wood County, Texas, was completed in 1945 and serves as a vital irrigation structure along the Fourmile Branch river.


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Summary

This private-owned Earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and stretches 650 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 514 acre-feet. While primarily used for irrigation purposes, the dam also contributes to flood control and water supply management in the region.

Despite its essential role in water resource management, Garner Lake Dam has been assessed as unsatisfactory in condition, with a moderate hazard potential. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and two outlet gates, enhancing its ability to regulate water flow. However, the dam's last inspection in October 2014 revealed the need for significant maintenance and improvements to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the state of Garner Lake Dam, attention is focused on the risk management measures and potential modifications needed to enhance its safety and performance. The dam's location and design make it a critical asset for the surrounding area, highlighting the importance of ongoing inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure the sustainable management of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

FOURMILE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

1.27

Nid Storage

514

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.