Sunset Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sunset Lake Dam, located in Conroe, Texas, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1951, this earth dam stands at 25 feet tall and stretches 850 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 960 acre-feet. The dam overlooks McDonald Creek and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), ensuring that it is regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 113 feet, allowing for controlled water discharge during periods of excess storage. Sunset Lake Dam has undergone modifications in 2005 to enhance both its hydraulic and structural components. Despite being rated in fair condition as of 2015, the dam poses a moderate risk level, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures. With a drainage area of 4.2 square miles and a surface area of 45 acres, Sunset Lake Dam remains a vital component for water resource management and climate enthusiasts in the Walker County region.

Overall, Sunset Lake Dam serves as a key recreational attraction in the area, offering not only a serene environment for visitors but also playing a crucial role in water storage and management. With its picturesque location overlooking McDonald Creek and its regulated operation by the TCEQ, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource practices. As efforts continue to ensure the safety and functionality of Sunset Lake Dam, it remains a valuable asset in the region's water infrastructure.

Years Modified

2005 - Hydraulic, 2005 - Structural

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

MCDONALD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

45

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

4.2

Nid Storage

960

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.