Baylor Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Childress Dam Williams Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Baylor Lake Dam, located in Childress, Texas, is a key water resource infrastructure managed by the local government.
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Summary
This earth dam was completed in 1950 and stands at a height of 50 feet, serving primarily for recreational purposes. The dam holds a normal storage capacity of 10,400 acre-feet and is associated with Baylor Creek, covering a surface area of 699 acres within a drainage area of 34.2 square miles.
Despite its historical significance, Baylor Lake Dam has faced challenges in recent years, with an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of April 2021. The dam has undergone modifications in 1996, particularly in its hydraulic system. With a moderate risk rating, the dam poses potential hazards that require close monitoring and management. The last inspection in November 2013 revealed the dam's need for maintenance and further evaluation to ensure its safety and functionality.
As a critical structure in the Fort Worth District, Baylor Lake Dam plays a vital role in water management and recreation for the local community. With its uncontrolled spillway and two outlet gates, the dam requires consistent inspection and risk assessment to mitigate potential threats and ensure the safety of surrounding areas. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Baylor Lake Dam in providing essential services while recognizing the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management efforts.
Years Modified |
1996 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
3890 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
BAYLOR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
699 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
34.2 |
Nid Storage |
15450 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
50 |
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.
Baylor Lake Dam