Owen Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Owen Lake Dam, located in Van Zandt, Texas, is a privately owned Earth dam that was completed in 1962 for the primary purpose of water supply.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 29 feet and with a length of 890 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 209 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 106 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Grand Saline Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state permitting and inspection, ensuring that it meets safety standards and regulations. With no spillway and a hazard potential labeled as "Not Available," the dam is classified as high risk (2) in terms of potential impact. While the condition of the dam is not rated, the risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans are not specified, leaving room for further evaluation and improvement to ensure the safety and resilience of the structure in the face of climate challenges.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Owen Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management of water infrastructure in Texas. With its strategic location on TR-Grand Saline Creek and its vital role in providing water supply, the dam serves as a critical asset for the region. However, the lack of detailed information on safety assessments and emergency response plans highlights the importance of continued monitoring and evaluation to ensure the resilience of the dam in the face of potential climate-related risks.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
890 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GRAND SALINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
209 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar Ck Nr Kemp
|
15cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Wills Point
|
7cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Mineola
|
70cfs |
Lake Fork Ck Nr Quitman
|
17cfs |
Kings Ck At Sh 34 Nr Kaufman
|
15cfs |
Trinity Rv At Trinidad
|
2210cfs |
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.
Owen Lake Dam