Lake Gladewater Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Gladewater Dam, located in Gladewater, Texas, is a vital structure for water supply, completed in 1952.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans a length of 1203 feet, with a storage capacity of 12075 acre-feet. The dam serves the primary purpose of water supply and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), ensuring its proper inspection, permitting, and enforcement.

The dam, constructed primarily of earth and stone materials, impounds water from Glade Creek and covers a surface area of 435 acres. Despite being rated as fair in condition assessment, the dam underwent structural modifications in 2011 to enhance its safety and functionality. With a moderate hazard potential, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 500 feet and various outlet gates for water release.

Lake Gladewater Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Upshur County, Texas, providing a reliable source of water for the local community. Its strategic location and efficient operation make it a significant asset for addressing water supply needs and ensuring water security in the region.

Years Modified

2011 - Structural

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

1203

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

GLADE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

435

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

43.7

Nid Storage

12075

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 3, Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

38
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.