Horseshoe Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Horseshoe Lake Dam, located in Wood County, Texas, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1959, this earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet with a structural height of 49 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 800 acre-feet. The dam has a spillway width of 101 feet and a drainage area of 1.04 square miles, serving as a key component in managing water resources in the area.

The dam on the Little Cypress Bayou is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The condition of Horseshoe Lake Dam was last assessed as satisfactory in April 2021, with the most recent inspection conducted in January 2013. The dam has undergone modifications in 1986 and 1998, including mechanical upgrades and other improvements to enhance its functionality and safety measures.

With its picturesque surroundings and vital role in providing recreational opportunities and water resource management, Horseshoe Lake Dam serves as a significant landmark in the region. As a privately owned structure, it highlights the intersection of human ingenuity in engineering and nature's beauty, offering a space for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates to appreciate and protect for future generations.

Years Modified

1986 - Other, 1998 - Mechanical, 1998 - Other

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE CYPRESS BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

42

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

1.04

Nid Storage

800

Structural Height

49

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1, Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

49
       
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.