Lake Forest Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Forest Dam, located in Rusk, Texas, was completed in 1934 and serves as a recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 20 feet with a structural height of 22 feet, spans 475 feet in length and holds a maximum storage capacity of 251 acre-feet. Positioned on Hardy Creek, the dam's primary purpose is recreation, offering a serene surface area of 13 acres for visitors to enjoy.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Lake Forest Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the most recent assessment in April 2021 indicating a satisfactory condition. In the event of emergencies, the dam is equipped with two uncontrolled and two valve outlet gates, along with a spillway width of 95 feet. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment. With its scenic location and recreational opportunities, Lake Forest Dam presents a valuable resource for both locals and visitors to appreciate and enjoy.

Years Modified

1978 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

475

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

HARDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

2.2

Nid Storage

251

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

22
       
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.