Beard Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 26, 2025

Beard Lake Dam, located in Upshur County, Texas, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this private-owned Earth dam serves as a crucial structure on TR-South Greasy Creek, providing a storage capacity of 270 acre-feet and a surface area of 29 acres. Despite its modest size, the dam plays a significant role in regulating water flow and maintaining water security in the area.

With a primary purpose classified as "Other," Beard Lake Dam represents a versatile resource that contributes to various water-related activities in the region. Its structural design, featuring a buttress core and a height of 18 feet, highlights the engineering expertise involved in its construction. The dam's high hazard potential and risk assessment rating of "High (2)" underscore the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the community.

As enthusiasts of water resources and climate issues, the Beard Lake Dam serves as a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure development and environmental stewardship. With its historical significance and critical role in water management, this dam stands as a reminder of the complex challenges and responsibilities associated with maintaining water resources in a changing climate. As we continue to grapple with the impacts of climate change, structures like Beard Lake Dam will play an increasingly vital role in safeguarding water supplies and mitigating risks for communities in Texas and beyond.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH GREASY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

270

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.