Lower Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower Lake Dam, located in Smith County, Texas, was completed in 1977 and stands at a height of 35 feet.


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Summary

This earth dam, primarily used for recreational purposes, was designed by Wisenbaker Fix & Associates and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). The dam, which impounds the waters of TR-Gilley Creek, has a storage capacity of 81 acre-feet and serves as a popular spot for outdoor activities in the area.

With a hazard potential of "Not Available" and a risk assessment rating of "High (2)", Lower Lake Dam poses certain risks that have not been fully assessed or managed. The dam does not have a spillway and is equipped with one outlet gate. Despite not being regularly inspected or rated for its condition, the dam continues to be a focal point for recreational opportunities in the region. It is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the condition and management of Lower Lake Dam to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the sustainability of the dam's operations.

As a key structure in the area's water resource management system, Lower Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also presenting potential risks that need to be carefully monitored and managed. By understanding the dam's design, purpose, and regulatory oversight, enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of maintaining and ensuring the safety of this earth dam in Smith County, Texas.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

890

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-GILLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

81

Structural Height

35

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.