Burke-Sullivan Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Burke-Sullivan Lake Dam, located in Madison County, Texas, is a private earth dam constructed in 1961 for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 20 feet and stretching 630 feet in length, this dam holds a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 68 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition and is currently not rated for any potential hazards.

Situated on TR-POOLES CREEK, the Burke-Sullivan Lake Dam is managed by private owners and is not under state regulation or enforcement. While it does not have a spillway, it is equipped with a single outlet gate. The risk assessment for this dam is considered high, with a risk level of 2, although specific risk management measures are not detailed in the available data. Overall, this dam serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area and is a key component of the local water supply infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Burke-Sullivan Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam engineering and management. Despite its relatively small size, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for the region. Its high risk assessment underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding the intricacies of dams like Burke-Sullivan Lake Dam becomes increasingly essential for sustainable water management in the future.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-POOLES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.