Arnold Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mewis Lake Dam Cook Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Arnold Lake Dam, located in Austin, Texas, was completed in 1966 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam, standing at 24 feet tall and stretching 1100 feet in length, holds a storage capacity of 269 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20 acres. Situated on Ivys Creek, the dam is primarily owned by a private entity and is not regulated by the state. Despite its high hazard potential and lack of a spillway, the dam is currently in a not rated condition assessment with no available emergency action plan.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Arnold Lake Dam to be an intriguing structure given its Earth core type and buttress foundation. The dam has one outlet gate and no associated locks or spillways, making it a unique construction within the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The risk assessment for the dam indicates a high risk level, but it is not currently rated for its condition or emergency preparedness. With its location in a recreational area, the dam provides opportunities for outdoor activities and water-based recreation for visitors.
Despite its age and limited state regulatory oversight, Arnold Lake Dam remains a significant feature in the Austin, Texas area for both its structural design and recreational offerings. Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate impact on dams can explore the unique characteristics of this dam, including its high hazard potential and risk assessment rating. As a privately owned structure, the dam's condition and emergency response preparedness may warrant further inspection and assessment to ensure the safety and sustainability of the surrounding environment.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
IVYS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
269 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Mill Ck Nr Bellville
|
8cfs |
Brazos Rv Nr Hempstead
|
1800cfs |
Brazos Rv At San Felipe
|
2310cfs |
Redgate Ck Nr Columbus
|
1cfs |
Cypress Ck At Katy-Hockley Rd Nr Hockley
|
24cfs |
Colorado Rv At Columbus
|
216cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Arnold Lake Dam