Shaw Lake Dam No 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shaw Lake Dam No 2, located in Rusk, Texas, was completed in 1954 and serves as an essential water resource for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 14 feet with a length of 500 feet, this earth dam on Flanigan Branch provides a maximum storage capacity of 234 acre-feet. While primarily designed for irrigation, the dam also supports fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreational activities in the area.

Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Shaw Lake Dam No 2 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's condition remains unrated as of the last inspection in 2010. While the spillway is uncontrolled, the dam has one outlet gate for water release. The surrounding area benefits from the water stored in the reservoir, ensuring a stable supply for agricultural and recreational needs.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shaw Lake Dam No 2 presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned irrigation dam that contributes to the local community's water needs. While the dam's condition assessment is pending, its vital role in supporting various activities underscores the importance of proper maintenance and risk management. Understanding the impact of such infrastructure on water resources and the environment is crucial for sustainable water management practices in the region.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

FLANIGAN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

234

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.