Moss Creek Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Howard County, Texas, the Moss Creek Lake Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence and environmental stewardship.


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Summary

Built in 1939 by the renowned firms Freese and Nichols and Endress, this earth dam spans 2,450 feet and reaches a height of 67 feet, with a hydraulic height of 55 feet. The dam serves the primary purposes of recreation and water supply, providing a storage capacity of 5,700 acre-feet and a surface area of 146 acres.

Overlooking the scenic Moss Creek, a tributary of Beals Creek, the Moss Creek Lake Dam offers a tranquil retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a normal storage capacity of 4,027 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 16,700 cubic feet per second, the dam ensures water availability for both recreational activities and local water supply needs. In terms of safety and maintenance, the dam has been assessed as being in fair condition, with regular inspections carried out by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

For those interested in the intricate workings of water management infrastructure, Moss Creek Lake Dam presents a fascinating study in dam engineering and environmental regulation. With a spillway width of 603 feet and a sophisticated outlet system comprising controlled, uncontrolled, and valve gates, the dam exemplifies the careful balance between human needs and ecological preservation. As a vital asset to the community of Robert Lee, this dam continues to play a crucial role in sustaining the region's water resources and enhancing its recreational opportunities.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

2450

Dam Height

67

River Or Stream

MOSS CREEK TRIBUTARY OF BEALS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

146

Hydraulic Height

55

Drainage Area

21

Nid Storage

5700

Structural Height

67

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1, Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

67
       
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.