Lake Kemp Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Kemp Dam, located in Baylor, Texas, is a vital structure designed by CE to manage flood risks along the Big Wichita River.


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Summary

Completed in 1923, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 115 feet and has a storage capacity of 1,078,000 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam also serves for irrigation, recreation, tailings, and water supply, showcasing its versatility in water resource management.

The dam's strategic location and design have made it a crucial asset in the region, with state regulatory agencies like TCEQ ensuring its proper maintenance and operation. Despite being rated as having a high risk potential, the dam's condition remains unrated as of the latest data update in 2018. It features two slide gates for outlet control and has undergone modifications in 1974, indicating a commitment to keeping the structure up-to-date and secure for the surrounding communities.

Lake Kemp Dam's impressive dimensions, coupled with its multi-purpose functionality and historical significance, make it a remarkable site for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a key element in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks, this dam highlights the importance of sustainable infrastructure in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against natural disasters and water scarcity.

Years Modified

1974 - Other

Year Completed

1923

Dam Length

8890

Dam Height

115

River Or Stream

BIG WICHITA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16540

Hydraulic Height

110

Drainage Area

3.26

Nid Storage

1078000

Structural Height

115

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

115
       
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.