Petrolia Lake No 1 Dam, located in Clay County, Texas, was completed in 1939 by designers Montgomery & Ward.
Wind
Humidity
This earth dam, with a structural height of 15 feet and a length of 680 feet, serves the primary purpose of water supply. The dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 207 acre-feet and a normal storage of 117 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 25 acres.
Despite its historical significance, the dam is currently in poor condition, as assessed in December 2015. The last inspection in August 2015 revealed a need for improvement, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 45 feet, and it has two uncontrolled outlet gates. The State of Texas regulates and inspects the dam to ensure its safety and enforce any necessary maintenance.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Petrolia Lake No 1 Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship. As efforts continue to maintain and improve this vital water supply structure, the dam stands as a testament to the ongoing challenges and responsibilities of managing our natural resources in a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1939 |
Dam Length |
680 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WICHITA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
1.42 |
Nid Storage |
207 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |