Fin-Feather Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Brazos, Texas, the Fin-Feather Lake Dam stands as a testament to flood risk reduction efforts in the region.


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Summary

Built in 1930, this private-owned Earth dam spans 1,310 feet in length and reaches a height of 16.1 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 300 acre-feet. Serving as a crucial infrastructure along the TR-Burton Creek, the dam's primary purpose is to mitigate flooding events and safeguard the surrounding area from potential risks.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and subject to state regulations, the Fin-Feather Lake Dam has been assessed to be in fair condition as of June 2015. With a moderate risk level and sporadic inspection frequency every 5 years, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and single outlet gate underscore the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its continued functionality. Despite its relatively small surface area of 25 acres, the dam plays a vital role in protecting the local community and ecosystem, highlighting the crucial interplay between water resources management and climate resilience in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricate details of the Fin-Feather Lake Dam, its historical significance and engineering intricacies offer a glimpse into the symbiotic relationship between human infrastructure and environmental stewardship. With Congressman Bill Flores representing the area, the dam serves as a beacon of flood risk reduction efforts, showcasing the collaborative efforts between federal, state, and private stakeholders in safeguarding communities against natural disasters. As discussions around risk management and resilience grow in importance, the Fin-Feather Lake Dam stands as a prime example of proactive measures taken to protect against potential hazards and underline the critical role of sustainable water resource management in combating climate challenges.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

1310

Dam Height

16.1

River Or Stream

TR-BURTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.