Rich Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rich Lake Dam in Grayson, Texas, stands as a vital structure serving multiple purposes, including fire protection and providing a habitat for small fish and livestock.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1969, this dam is primarily an earth structure with a height of 20 feet and a length of 460 feet. It has a storage capacity of 136 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10 acres, drawing water from the Paw Paw Creek.

Managed by a private owner, Rich Lake Dam has no state jurisdiction or regulatory agency oversight, although it undergoes regular inspections and permitting processes. Despite its high risk assessment rating, the condition of the dam remains unrated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. With a lack of spillways and limited discharge capacity, this dam serves as a critical water resource in the region, emphasizing the importance of its maintenance and upkeep for the surrounding community and ecosystem.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

PAW PAW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

136

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.