Jan Kay Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jan Kay Lake Dam, located in Red River, Texas, stands as a testament to the vital role of water resource management in the region.


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Summary

Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this private earth dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock watering, and recreational activities. With a height of 18 feet and a length of 530 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet, ensuring a stable water supply for the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Jan Kay Lake Dam remains a critical infrastructure for the community, with a high risk assessment due to its condition not being rated. The dam, constructed with a buttress core type and no spillway, highlights the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality. With a primary source agency in Texas and state permitting and inspection in place, efforts are being made to manage any potential risks associated with the dam.

As water enthusiasts and climate advocates, understanding the significance of Jan Kay Lake Dam in safeguarding water resources and supporting local ecosystems is essential. With its location on TR-SCATTER CREEK and a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water supply management and environmental conservation efforts in the region. As we continue to address the challenges of water scarcity and climate change, Jan Kay Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water resource management practices for the well-being of communities and the environment.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-SCATTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

51

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.