Canton Old City Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Van Zandt County, Texas, the Canton Old City Lake Dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and resilience.
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Summary
Initially completed in 1930, this earth dam was rebuilt following a breach in 1982, showcasing a commitment to maintaining water resources for both recreational and practical purposes. With a height of 18.3 feet and a length of 695 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the flow of the TR-DRY CREEK and providing essential water storage for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and regulated at the state level, the Canton Old City Lake Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2017, the dam presents a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures. With a storage capacity of 220 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 144 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital resource for the community while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the history and significance of the Canton Old City Lake Dam, they can appreciate the efforts that have gone into its design, construction, and maintenance over the years. With a spillway width of 295 feet and uncontrolled outlets, this dam exemplifies the balance between human intervention and nature's forces. By understanding the role of structures like the Canton Old City Lake Dam in water management and environmental conservation, enthusiasts can gain a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of water resources and climate dynamics.
Years Modified |
1984 - Other |
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
695 |
Dam Height |
18.3 |
River Or Stream |
TR-DRY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
1.03 |
Nid Storage |
220 |
Structural Height |
18.3 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cedar Ck Nr Kemp
|
15cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Wills Point
|
7cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Mineola
|
70cfs |
Kings Ck At Sh 34 Nr Kaufman
|
15cfs |
Lake Fork Ck Nr Quitman
|
17cfs |
S Fk Sabine Rv Nr Quinlan
|
34cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Canton Old City Lake Dam