Wichman Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wichman Lake Dam, located in Grimes County, Texas, is a privately owned structure primarily used for water supply purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1969, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and stretches 700 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 220 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 104 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-Navasota River and is under the jurisdiction of the Galveston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Despite being designated as having a high risk level (2), the condition of the Wichman Lake Dam has not been officially rated. This dam does not have a spillway and lacks any associated locks. While it is not regulated by the state, it does require permitting and inspection, which have been carried out. With its crucial role in providing water supply to the area, this dam serves as a significant resource for both the local community and the surrounding environment.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wichman Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned structure with important implications for water management and conservation efforts in Texas. The dam's history, design, and purpose offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with maintaining and regulating water infrastructure in a region that is susceptible to the impacts of climate change. As the debate around water resource management continues to evolve, understanding the role and function of dams like Wichman Lake Dam becomes increasingly essential for ensuring the sustainable stewardship of our water resources.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TR-NAVASOTA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

220

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.