Brady Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Brady Lake Dam, located in McCulloch, Texas, along Brady Creek, is a key water resource infrastructure managed by the local government for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1963, the dam stands at a height of 104 feet and spans a length of 9400 feet, with a storage capacity of 212,400 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 368,900 cubic feet per second. The dam's spillway, with a width of 1007 feet, is uncontrolled, adding to the natural beauty of the area.

The dam, designed by Freese-Nichols and constructed with stone core and rock and soil foundations, has undergone modifications in 1977 for hydraulic improvements and in 1988 for structural enhancements. Despite its fair condition assessment as of October 2017, the dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections every five years. The risk assessment categorizes the dam as having a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of continued monitoring and management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of this vital water resource in the region.

With its picturesque location and significant role in providing water storage and recreational opportunities, Brady Lake Dam serves as a symbol of the intersection between water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, the importance of maintaining and safeguarding infrastructure like Brady Lake Dam will only grow, highlighting the critical need for proactive risk management and sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of this essential resource for both the local community and the environment.

Years Modified

1977 - Hydraulic, 1988 - Structural

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

9400

Dam Height

104

River Or Stream

BRADY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2020

Hydraulic Height

104

Drainage Area

513

Nid Storage

212400

Structural Height

104

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 3, Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

104
       
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.