Kennedy Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kennedy Lake Dam, located on Big Creek in Limestone County, Texas, was completed in 1948 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 26 feet and stretching 1250 feet in length, holds a maximum storage capacity of 497 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 285 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 160 feet and a maximum discharge of 7150 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle significant water flow during heavy rainfall events.

Despite being a privately owned structure, Kennedy Lake Dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement regulations. It is classified as an Earth dam with a Buttress core type and is considered to have a moderate risk level. While the dam's condition assessment is not rated, the structure has not been deemed a hazard potential. With its picturesque setting and ample recreational opportunities, Kennedy Lake Dam serves as an important asset to the local community and water resource enthusiasts alike.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

1250

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

31

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

497

Structural Height

26

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

26
       
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.