Choke Canyon Reservoir Report
Nearby: Raschke Lake Dam Tips Park Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Choke Canyon, located in Live Oak County, Texas, is a Federal-owned water resource that plays a crucial role in water supply, recreation, and other purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1982 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 116 feet and spans 18,504 feet in length. With a maximum storage capacity of over 1 million acre-feet, Choke Canyon reservoir provides essential water resources to the region, drawing from the Frio River's 5,530 square-mile drainage area.
The dam's controlled spillway, outlet gates, and high hazard potential underscore the importance of its maintenance and regulation by the Bureau of Reclamation. Despite its very high risk assessment rating, the dam's condition assessment and emergency preparedness details are currently unavailable. Choke Canyon's recreational opportunities, expansive surface area of 25,733 acres, and its critical role in water supply for the region make it a significant asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and support for sustainable management practices.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Choke Canyon's multi-arch core design, high hydraulic height of 106 feet, and its operational oversight by the Bureau of Reclamation. The reservoir's location in Three Rivers, Texas, along with its association with the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, further highlights its importance in the region's water infrastructure. With its significant storage capacity, controlled spillway, and potential for large discharges, Choke Canyon serves as a vital resource for water management and recreational activities, contributing to the resilience of the local ecosystem and community.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
18504 |
Dam Height |
116 |
River Or Stream |
FRIO RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25733 |
Hydraulic Height |
106 |
Drainage Area |
5530 |
Nid Storage |
1096261 |
Structural Height |
141 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 5, Slide (sluice gate) - 7, Tainter (radial) - 7 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
141 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Choke Canyon Res Owc Nr Three Rivers
|
34cfs |
Nueces Rv Nr Three Rivers
|
29cfs |
Atascosa Rv At Whitsett
|
0cfs |
Frio Rv At Tilden
|
0cfs |
San Miguel Ck Nr Tilden
|
0cfs |
Nueces Rv Nr Tilden
|
0cfs |
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.
Choke Canyon
Choke Canyon Res Nr Three Rivers