Highlands Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Highlands Reservoir Dam, located in Harris County, Texas, was completed in 1944 and serves as a crucial water supply source for the city of McNair.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 18.3 feet, with a total length of 34,700 feet. It is primarily composed of earth and stone, resting on rock and soil foundations, making it a sturdy structure for water storage and management.

With a normal storage capacity of 1,903 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 5,885 acre-feet, Highlands Reservoir Dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and providing flood protection in the region. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 28 feet and multiple outlet gates for controlled water release. Inspected regularly and found to be in satisfactory condition, the dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and has undergone hydraulic and structural modifications in 2013 to enhance its performance.

The risk assessment for Highlands Reservoir Dam categorizes it as having a moderate risk level, with a hazard potential that is not available. Despite this, the dam has implemented risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and maintain its operational effectiveness. With its critical role in water supply and flood control, Highlands Reservoir Dam stands as a significant infrastructure asset in the region, contributing to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

Years Modified

2013 - Hydraulic, 2013 - Structural

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

34700

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

OFF CH-GOOSE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

805

Hydraulic Height

18.3

Drainage Area

1.26

Nid Storage

5885

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 7, Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.