South Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
South Lake Dam in Jones, Texas, stands as a vital structure regulating the flow of Dry California Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1939, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation but also supports water supply needs. The dam measures 38 feet in height and stretches 6800 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 1900 acre-feet.
Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, South Lake Dam has undergone inspections that deemed its condition unsatisfactory. Despite its critical role in water management, the dam's hazard potential and risk assessment are currently rated as moderate. The spillway, with a width of 1748 feet, operates on an uncontrolled basis, enabling a maximum discharge of 183200 cubic feet per second.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find South Lake Dam an intriguing subject of study, given its historical significance, structural characteristics, and the ongoing efforts to ensure its safety and functionality. With its location in a scenic area and its role in water supply and recreation, the dam presents both challenges and opportunities for sustainable management in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
6800 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
DRY CALIFORNIA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
742 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
35 |
Nid Storage |
6475 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
South Lake Dam