Lake Trammel Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Trammel Dam, located in Sweetwater, Texas, is a vital water supply infrastructure designed by CAMP DRESSER & MCKEE INC and M M COOK.


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Summary

Completed in 1915, this earth dam stands at a height of 66.3 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 5890 acre-feet. Serving primarily for water supply purposes, the dam controls the flow of Sweetwater Creek and covers a surface area of 160 acres, with a drainage area of 49.3 square miles.

With a fair condition assessment as of October 2015, Lake Trammel Dam poses a moderate risk level, although specific risk management measures are not detailed. The spillway, characterized as uncontrolled and 500 feet wide, allows for a maximum discharge of 81500 cubic feet per second. The dam underwent modifications in 1988 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities, ensuring its continued efficiency in water management. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulates and inspects the dam, guaranteeing its compliance with state standards and ensuring the safety of the surrounding communities.

Overall, Lake Trammel Dam stands as a crucial component in the water supply infrastructure of Nolan County, Texas. Its historical significance, coupled with its impact on the local environment and community, highlights the importance of proper maintenance and regulation to safeguard its integrity and functionality for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Years Modified

1988 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

1160

Dam Height

66.3

River Or Stream

SWEETWATER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

160

Hydraulic Height

66.3

Drainage Area

49.3

Nid Storage

5890

Structural Height

66.3

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

66
       
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.