Carlos Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Carlos Lake Dam, located in Grimes, Texas, is a privately owned structure built in 1930 primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 25 feet with a length of 925 feet, impounds the waters of Big Branch creating a surface area of 21 acres. It has a storage capacity of 540 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 126 acre-feet.
The dam is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, and its hazard potential is not available. The risk assessment for the dam is considered high, indicating the need for careful monitoring and management to ensure its safety and integrity.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Carlos Lake Dam will find it a significant structure in the region, providing recreational opportunities while also serving as a vital component of the local water management system. The dam's historical significance and potential risks highlight the importance of ongoing inspection and maintenance to safeguard its continued functionality and the surrounding community's safety.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
925 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
BIG BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
540 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Carlos Lake Dam