Cantrell Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cantrell Lake Dam in Van Zandt, Texas, stands as a testament to the importance of water supply infrastructure in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1972, this private-owned Earth dam serves a primary purpose of water supply, with a capacity of 137 acre-feet of storage. The dam is situated on Horsley Creek, offering vital water resources to the surrounding area.

Despite its modest height of 18 feet and length of 460 feet, Cantrell Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water management and distribution. With no spillway and limited structural features, the dam's design reflects its focus on water supply rather than flood control. Its location within the Fort Worth District underlines its significance in the local hydraulic landscape, with a high risk assessment indicating the need for careful monitoring and maintenance.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Cantrell Lake Dam serve as essential components of sustainable water management. With its role in water supply and its high-risk profile, this dam highlights the complex interplay between infrastructure, climate, and water availability. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cantrell Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study in the ongoing challenges and solutions in ensuring water security for communities in Texas and beyond.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

460

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-HORSLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

137

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.