Howard Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Howard Lake Dam, located in San Jacinto, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1957 for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 16 feet with a length of 260 feet, this structure plays a crucial role in providing water storage for the surrounding area. The dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 130 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 83 acre-feet, serving the local community's water needs effectively.

Situated on Oil Creek and managed by the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Howard Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment but is classified as having a high risk level (2). Despite lacking a spillway, the dam features one outlet gate, emphasizing its importance in water management. With no regulatory agency overseeing its operations and enforcement, the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness remain unclear. As a vital component of the water supply infrastructure, Howard Lake Dam serves as a critical resource for maintaining water security in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the ecological impact of dams and water supply systems can find Howard Lake Dam an intriguing subject for study. The dam's historical significance, design features, and risk assessment status present opportunities for research and analysis in understanding the role of such structures in water management and conservation efforts. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resources, Howard Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water infrastructure for community resilience and adaptation to environmental changes.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

260

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

OIL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.