Lake Necessity Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Necessity Dam, located in Stephens County, Texas, was completed in 1967 for the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam stands at 18 feet in height and spans 600 feet in length, creating a storage capacity of 308 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Cedar Creek and is under the jurisdiction of the state of Texas.

Despite being a non-federally regulated structure, Lake Necessity Dam holds a high hazard potential, with a risk assessment rating of 2. While the condition of the dam is currently not rated, it is important to note that there are no spillways or locks associated with this structure. The dam also lacks designated evacuation plans and updated emergency contacts, raising concerns about its safety and preparedness in the event of a disaster.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Necessity Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management and maintenance of privately-owned irrigation infrastructure. With its critical role in providing water for agricultural purposes, the dam's risk assessment and lack of regulatory oversight highlight the importance of ensuring the safety and integrity of essential water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

CEDAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

308

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.