Birdsong Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Birdsong Lake Dam, located in Eastland, Texas, was completed in 1966 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This privately owned Earth dam stands at a height of 39 feet and has a length of 860 feet, with a storage capacity of 646 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-ELLISON SPRINGS BRANCH river or stream, within the jurisdiction of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

The dam's spillway, with a width of 200 feet, is uncontrolled, allowing for a maximum discharge of 1700 cubic feet per second. The structure was modified in 1973 for structural improvements, and its condition was assessed as fair as of April 2018. The hazard potential is not available, but the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk. The dam is inspected every five years, with the last inspection conducted in August 2017.

Overall, Birdsong Lake Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region, providing irrigation water for agriculture and contributing to the local economy. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find this dam's design and operational details fascinating, as well as its impact on the surrounding environment and community. With its history of modifications and ongoing inspections, Birdsong Lake Dam exemplifies the importance of maintaining and managing water infrastructure for sustainable development in the face of changing climate conditions.

Years Modified

1973 - Structural

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

860

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

TR-ELLISON SPRINGS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

39

Drainage Area

1.8

Nid Storage

646

Structural Height

39

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

39
       
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.