Bistone Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bistone Dam, located in Limestone, Texas, along the Navasota River, is a vital water resource infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Constructed in 1961 by KOCH FOWLER & GRAFE INC, this Earth-type dam stands at 50 feet tall and stretches 1645 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of 45,000 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 4,687 acre-feet, the dam serves multiple purposes including recreation, water supply, and other activities.

The dam's hydraulic height matches its structural height at 50 feet, with a spillway width of 520 feet for uncontrolled water release. Despite being categorized as having a fair condition assessment as of January 2015, the dam poses a moderate risk level according to the data, with no specific risk management measures outlined. With a drainage area of 198 square miles and a surface area of 1,009 acres, Bistone Dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing essential services to the surrounding communities.

Although the hazard potential is not available, the dam's last inspection was conducted in June 2014, with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) overseeing regulatory and inspection activities. With a congressman representation by Bill Flores (R), the dam's significance in water resource management and climate resilience is underscored by its impact on the local ecosystem and water supply stability in the region.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

1645

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

NAVASOTA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1009

Hydraulic Height

50

Drainage Area

198

Nid Storage

45000

Structural Height

50

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

50
       
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.