Porter Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Porter Lake Dam, located in Terrell, Texas, was completed in 1914 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection and as a stock or small fish pond.
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Summary
The earth dam, with a height of 16.25 feet and a length of 1220 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 196 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20 acres. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and has undergone modifications in 1952 for structural improvements and in 2008 for hydraulic enhancements.
The dam's condition is assessed as fair, with the last inspection conducted in July 2017 and scheduled for every 5 years. The dam has a spillway width of 471 feet and features outlet gates for controlled water release. In case of emergencies, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was last revised in 2011, and contact information is updated as needed. Overall, Porter Lake Dam remains a vital resource for water management and wildlife conservation in the area, while also providing essential fire protection services for the local community.
With its rich history dating back over a century, Porter Lake Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management in Kaufman County, Texas. Its strategic location along the TR-Kings Creek, within the Fort Worth District, ensures efficient water storage and distribution for various uses. The dam's association with private ownership highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in sustaining critical infrastructure like dams, especially in the face of changing environmental conditions and increasing water demand. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, the resilience and proper maintenance of Porter Lake Dam will be essential in safeguarding the surrounding ecosystem and communities that rely on its services.
Years Modified |
1952 - Structural, 2008 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1914 |
Dam Length |
1220 |
Dam Height |
16.25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-KINGS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
16.25 |
Drainage Area |
0.38 |
Nid Storage |
196 |
Structural Height |
16.25 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1, Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Porter Lake Dam
New Terrell City Lk Nr Terrell