Dairy Barn Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tulosa Lake Dam Tranquitas Lake Dam
Last Updated: April 1, 2026
Located in Kingsville, Texas, Dairy Barn Lake Dam is a private structure regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
Summary
Built in 1937, this Earth-type dam is primarily used for fish and wildlife pond purposes, with a storage capacity of 4922 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 17.1 feet and spans a length of 1360 feet, serving the Santa Gertrudis Creek.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 610 feet and two slide gates for outlet control. Despite being of moderate risk, Dairy Barn Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, highlighting the need for frequent inspections and potential risk management measures. With a maximum discharge capacity of 38170 cubic feet per second, this structure plays a crucial role in fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond purposes while supporting the local ecosystem.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Dairy Barn Lake Dam a fascinating case study in sustainable dam management, showcasing the importance of regulatory oversight and maintenance in ensuring the safety and efficiency of vital water infrastructure. As a key feature in the Fort Worth District's landscape, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human needs and environmental conservation in water resource management.
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15-Day Weather Outlook
Years Modified |
1988 - Other, 2012 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1937 |
Dam Length |
1360 |
Dam Height |
17.1 |
River Or Stream |
SANTA GERTRUDIS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
145 |
Hydraulic Height |
17.1 |
Drainage Area |
408 |
Nid Storage |
4922 |
Structural Height |
21.1 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Dairy Barn Lake Dam