Lake Kickapoo Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Kickapoo Dam, located in Archer County, Texas, is a vital water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Built in 1945, the earth dam stands at 62 feet high and stretches over 6,720 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 202,000 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 86,345 acre-feet, the dam serves the primary purpose of supplying water to the region, drawing from the North Fork Little Wichita River.

Over the years, the dam has undergone structural modifications in 1983 and 1991 to ensure its stability and functionality. The spillway, with a width of 1,480 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for the safe release of excess water during periods of high discharge. Despite being rated as having a moderate risk level, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource demands.

Lake Kickapoo Dam plays a crucial role in water management for the area, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and adherence to regulatory standards set by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for ensuring water supply reliability and resilience in the region, underlining the significance of sustainable water management practices for the future.

Years Modified

1983 - Structural, 1991 - Structural

Year Completed

1945

Dam Length

6720

Dam Height

62

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK LITTLE WICHITA RIV

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5864

Hydraulic Height

62

Drainage Area

275

Nid Storage

202000

Structural Height

62

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

62
       
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.