Waltrip Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Waltrip Lake Dam, located in Grimes, Texas, is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1977, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a length of 1160 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 768 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 519 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 33.1 acres.

The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and has undergone state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. It serves as a part of the TR-Gibbons Creek watershed and is managed by the Galveston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 105 feet and four uncontrolled outlet gates.

Despite being rated as having a moderate risk potential, the condition of Waltrip Lake Dam remains unrated as of now. Its hazard potential is listed as not available, and there is no emergency action plan in place. With its picturesque location and recreational purpose, the dam stands as a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure, contributing to the overall environmental and social well-being of the area.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

1160

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-GIBBONS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33.1

Hydraulic Height

38

Nid Storage

768

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 4

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.