Lake Brazos Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Brazos Dam, located in Waco, Texas, is a crucial structure on the Brazos River primarily serving for recreational purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1970 by FORREST AND COTTON AND YOUNG BROS INC, FREESE AND NICHOLS, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and a length of 650 feet. Its spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 523 feet to handle a maximum discharge of 100,000 cubic feet per second. The dam has a storage capacity of 10,000 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 3,537 acre-feet.

Although the dam has undergone modifications in 1988 and 2008 for structural enhancements, its condition is currently not rated. It is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and its risk assessment is considered moderate. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in 2010, ensuring that necessary measures are in place to address any potential hazards. With its picturesque location and significant role in water resource management, Lake Brazos Dam stands as a vital asset for both the local community and climate enthusiasts.

Years Modified

1988 - Other, 2008 - Structural

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

BRAZOS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

10000

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 4, Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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.