Sky Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sky Lake Dam, located in Van, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1975 by WISENBAKER FIX & ASSOCIATES, the dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a length of 1358 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 1500 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 153 feet, is uncontrolled and can handle a maximum discharge of 3 cubic feet per second. Despite being classified as having a fair condition assessment as of April 2021, the dam poses a moderate risk level, according to the data. The last inspection took place in November 2012, with a scheduled inspection frequency of every 5 years. The dam has not been associated with any significant hazard potential, and there have been no reported incidents or emergency preparedness measures in place.

Overall, Sky Lake Dam serves as a vital recreational asset in Smith County, Texas, offering opportunities for water-based activities and wildlife habitat. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to monitor the dam's condition and regulatory oversight to ensure its continued safe operation for both recreational and environmental purposes.

Years Modified

1992 - Structural

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

1358

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

TR-VILLAGE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

75.5

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

3.62

Nid Storage

1500

Structural Height

34

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.