Kilgore Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Kilgore Dam, located in Kilgore, Texas, was completed in 1949 and primarily serves as a recreational spot for water and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam, measuring 25 feet in height and 420 feet in length, holds a maximum storage capacity of 138 acre-feet. Situated on Big Head Creek, the dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting processes to ensure safety and compliance.

Despite its age, Kilgore Dam remains in good condition with a hazard potential that is currently not available. The dam lacks a spillway and has one outlet gate. Its risk assessment categorizes it as high (2) due to potential risks associated with its structure. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it continues to be monitored and managed to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.

In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Kilgore Dam stands as a notable infrastructure that not only provides recreational opportunities but also underscores the importance of proper regulation and maintenance to safeguard against potential hazards. With its historical significance and ongoing management efforts, Kilgore Dam serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between human intervention and the natural environment in sustaining water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

BIG HEAD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.2

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

0.44

Nid Storage

138

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.