Huntsville State Park Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Huntsville State Park Dam in Texas is a key water resource structure managed by the state, with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality overseeing regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement.


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Summary

Completed in 1938, this earth dam stands at 35 feet high and spans 2600 feet along Prairie Branch, serving primarily for recreational purposes in the area. With a normal storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 6508 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for various recreational activities within the state park.

The dam's spillway, measuring 150 feet wide, is uncontrolled and can handle a maximum discharge of 45375 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a fair condition assessment as of April 2021, with a moderate risk level, the Huntsville State Park Dam continues to be a vital infrastructure for water management and conservation in the region. Emergency preparedness measures are in place, although the last update on the Emergency Action Plan was in 2012, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of the dam.

With its picturesque location in Walker County, Texas, and under the jurisdiction of the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Huntsville State Park Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management for recreational purposes. The dam's association with the DOI NPS and its stone core construction on a soil foundation contribute to its historical significance and environmental impact. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the engineering and regulatory aspects of structures like Huntsville State Park Dam is crucial for appreciating the intersection of natural beauty, recreation, and environmental stewardship in our communities.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

2600

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

PRAIRIE BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

207

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

15

Nid Storage

6508

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 0

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.