Burns Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ellenburg Lake Dam Garner Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Burns Lake Dam, located in Clay County, Texas, was completed in 1963 and serves as a vital water supply source for the region.
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Summary
This private-owned Earth-type dam stands at a height of 22 feet and spans a length of 675 feet along TR-Turkey Creek. Despite its age, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 202 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 360 acre-feet, making it a crucial resource for the local community.
Although Burns Lake Dam is not regulated by the state, it is subject to regular inspections and permitting processes to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam lacks a spillway and has one outlet gate, contributing to its high risk assessment rating of 2. While the hazard potential and condition assessment of the dam are not available, its risk management measures and emergency action plan status are yet to be determined. The dam's risk level emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential hazards and protect the surrounding area from potential risks.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Burns Lake Dam an intriguing subject due to its historical significance and essential role in providing water supply to the region. As a key infrastructure asset in Clay County, Texas, the dam's design and operational features highlight the importance of proactive management and regulatory oversight to ensure the safety and reliability of water resources in the area. With its unique characteristics and risk profile, Burns Lake Dam serves as a noteworthy case study for understanding the intersection of water supply management, dam safety, and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
675 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28 |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
360 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Burns Lake Dam