Located in Brazoria, Texas, the Columbia Lakes Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1967.
Wind
Humidity
The dam, primarily owned by the local government, serves the dual purpose of recreation and water resource management. Designed by Kenneth Briton, PE, the earth dam features a stone core and soil foundation, standing at a height of 10 feet and stretching over 16,720 feet in length. The reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 1,686 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 279 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With three slide outlet gates and no spillway, the dam boasts a hazard potential deemed "Not Available," with a high risk assessment rating. Despite its age, the dam has not been rated for its current condition, although emergency action plans have been prepared to meet guidelines. The dam's location off Ch-Varnar Creek within the Fort Worth District makes it a vital resource for the community of West Columbia.
As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, the Columbia Lakes Reservoir Dam remains a critical asset for managing water supply and providing recreational opportunities in Brazoria County. With continued state oversight and risk management measures, this dam serves as a model for sustainable water resource development in the face of environmental challenges. Passionate water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the ingenuity and importance of the Columbia Lakes Reservoir Dam in sustaining both natural ecosystems and human communities in Texas.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
16720 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
OFF CH-VARNER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
279 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
0.4 |
Nid Storage |
2810 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Brazos Rv Nr Rosharon
|
2110cfs |
San Bernard Rv Nr Boling
|
136cfs |
Chocolate Bayou Nr Alvin
|
45cfs |
Big Ck Nr Needville
|
45cfs |
Dry Ck Nr Rosenberg
|
84cfs |
Colorado Rv Nr Bay City
|
2670cfs |