Lake Tristan Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Tristan Dam, located in Hillister, Texas, is a vital water resource for the local community and a popular spot for recreational activities.


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Summary

Built in 1958, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and stretches over 1100 feet, with a storage capacity of 670 acre-feet. The dam controls the flow of the TR-Magnus Branch river and has a spillway width of 256 feet for managing excess water.

Maintained by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Lake Tristan Dam underwent modifications in 1997 and 2012 to improve its hydraulic capabilities. Despite being classified as having a "Fair" condition assessment, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. With a surface area of 29.4 acres and a drainage area of 4.23 square miles, the dam offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy boating, fishing, and other water-based activities.

The dam's ownership lies with the local government, emphasizing its importance as a community asset. It is a significant structure in the Fort Worth District, overseen by the US Army Corps of Engineers, and serves as a crucial element in water management and conservation efforts in the region. Lake Tristan Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management and environmental stewardship in Texas.

Years Modified

1997 - Hydraulic, 2012 - Other

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-MAGNUS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

29.4

Hydraulic Height

19

Drainage Area

4.23

Nid Storage

670

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.