Ashton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ashton Lake Dam, located in Mills County, Texas, was completed in 1900 and serves primarily as an irrigation source.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 16 feet and a length of 250 feet, was designed as a gravity structure with a buttress core type. Situated on the Big Blanket Creek, the dam does not have a spillway and is associated with a hazard potential rated as "Not Available".

Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Ashton Lake Dam poses a high risk level according to the data, suggesting a need for risk management measures to be implemented. With a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet, the dam does not have a designated surface area and drainage area. While it currently does not meet certain safety guidelines, it remains a key resource for irrigation, fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreational purposes in the area.

Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts interested in Ashton Lake Dam can explore its historical significance as an early 20th-century irrigation infrastructure and its potential implications for water management in the region. The dam's risk assessment and condition assessment highlight the importance of regular inspections and the development of emergency action plans to ensure the safety and stability of the structure for both the surrounding community and the environment.

Year Completed

1900

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

BIG BLANKET CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

125

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.