Spring Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Spring Lake Dam in Canton, Texas, plays a vital role in both recreational activities and water supply management.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 30 feet with a structural height of 24 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 478 acre-feet and serves a normal storage of 223 acre-feet. The dam, completed in 1930, spans a length of 490 feet and is situated on the Chinquapin Branch river.
Despite its importance, recent assessments have revealed a poor condition of the dam, raising concerns about its structural integrity and safety. The last inspection conducted in June 2017 highlighted the need for improvements, with a risk assessment rating the hazard potential as moderate. With a history of modifications in 1930 for structural enhancements, it is crucial for the responsible agency, TCEQ, to enforce regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the dam's safety and longevity for both recreational and water management purposes.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area should be aware of the risks associated with the Spring Lake Dam and advocate for proper maintenance and repair measures to safeguard the community from potential hazards. With a spillway type classified as uncontrolled and a risk assessment rating of 3 (moderate), it is imperative for stakeholders to monitor the dam's condition closely and push for necessary actions to address the identified issues. By staying informed and involved in the oversight of this critical infrastructure, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation of this essential water resource for future generations.
Years Modified |
1930 - Structural |
Dam Length |
490 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
CHINQUAPIN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
478 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar Ck Nr Kemp
|
15cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Wills Point
|
7cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Mineola
|
70cfs |
Kings Ck At Sh 34 Nr Kaufman
|
15cfs |
Trinity Rv At Trinidad
|
2210cfs |
Lake Fork Ck Nr Quitman
|
17cfs |
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.
Spring Lake Dam