Lake Bayou Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Bayou Reservoir Dam in Liberty, Texas, stands as a vital irrigation structure completed in 1969.


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Summary

This private dam, with a height of 21 feet and a length of over 10,000 feet, serves the primary purpose of irrigation for the surrounding area. Located on Lake Bayou, this earth dam with a multi-arch core rests on rock and soil foundations and has a maximum storage capacity of 1794 acre-feet.

Despite being classified as having a moderate risk level, the dam's condition remains unrated, with the last inspection taking place in January 1987. With three uncontrolled spillways and one other controlled outlet gate, Lake Bayou Reservoir Dam requires regular inspection and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety. Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in the area can appreciate the significance of Lake Bayou Reservoir Dam in ensuring a stable water supply for irrigation purposes. With its strategic location and design, this dam continues to play a critical role in supporting agriculture and water sustainability in Liberty, Texas.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

10193

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

LAKE BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

1794

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1, Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.