Katy Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Katy Lake Dam, located in Waxahachie, Texas, stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and a commitment to preserving water resources for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1902 by the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad and O'Brien Engineering, this earth dam on the Prince Branch river offers a serene oasis for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With a height of 30.3 feet and a storage capacity of 87 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital link in the local water supply chain while also providing a picturesque backdrop for leisure activities.

Managed by private owners and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Katy Lake Dam has undergone periodic inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's spillway, with a width of 228 feet, allows for controlled water discharge during peak flow events, mitigating the risk of flooding in the surrounding area. Despite its age, the dam's fair condition assessment as of April 2021 underscores the commitment to its ongoing maintenance and upkeep.

As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Katy Lake Dam continues to be a symbol of sustainable water management practices and responsible stewardship of natural resources. With its historical significance and recreational value, this earth dam embodies a harmonious blend of functionality and beauty, attracting visitors to enjoy its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings.

Years Modified

2006 - Other

Year Completed

1902

Dam Length

1310

Dam Height

30.3

River Or Stream

PRINCE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.9

Hydraulic Height

30.3

Drainage Area

0.74

Nid Storage

87

Structural Height

30.3

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.