Messner Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Messner Lake Dam, located in Upshur County, Texas, was completed in 1930 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This private Earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 400 feet, with a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Clear Creek, the dam is owned and operated by a private entity and is not regulated by the state. Despite being in good condition according to the last inspection in 2008, the dam has a high risk assessment rating, indicating potential hazards.

The dam does not have a spillway and is equipped with one outlet gate. While the hazard potential and condition assessment are not available, it is clear that Messner Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation in the region. The surrounding area may be at risk due to the high risk assessment rating, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the dam for water resource management in the area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Messner Lake Dam a fascinating site to study and monitor, given its historical significance and the vital role it plays in irrigation. The lack of state regulatory oversight and the high risk assessment rating add an element of intrigue, prompting further investigation into the dam's structural integrity and potential environmental impact. As a key feature on TR-Clear Creek, Messner Lake Dam is a valuable asset in the region's water management infrastructure, making it a subject of interest for those passionate about sustainable water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1930

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds

Location Reservations Toilets
Messner Lake DamOld Camp Preview Old Camp
Messner Lake Damcamp Mabey Preview camp Mabey
Messner Lake DamCamp Gilmont Preview Camp Gilmont