Griffin Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: February 13, 2026

Griffin Lake Dam, located in Walker County, Texas, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose classified as "Other." Built in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and stretches for 771 feet along the TR-Winters Bayou.


Summary

With a storage capacity of 282 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital water resource in the region, holding a normal storage volume of 182 acre-feet.

Despite being not state-regulated, Griffin Lake Dam is equipped with state permitting and inspection protocols. The dam's hazard potential is labeled as "Not Available," with a high risk assessment score of 2. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, emergency action plans and risk management measures are not fully documented. The absence of a spillway and limited information on hazard potential heighten the importance of monitoring and maintaining this critical infrastructure for water supply and climate resilience.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Griffin Lake Dam presents a compelling case study in the management and maintenance of vital water infrastructure in Texas. As a key component of the local watershed, this privately owned dam underscores the need for continued regulatory oversight, inspection, and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region. With its unique design and historical significance, Griffin Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the intricate interplay between human development and environmental conservation in the face of evolving climate challenges.



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15-Day Weather Outlook


Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

771

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR-WINTERS BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

282

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.