Gibbons Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gibbons Creek Dam, located in Navasota, Texas, is a local government-owned structure that serves multiple purposes, with its primary function being hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Built in 1981 by FREESE AND NICHOLS, this earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and spans 6150 feet in length. It harnesses the waters of the Gibbons Creek for storage, with a maximum capacity of 81,874 acre-feet and normal storage of 32,084 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 2770 acres.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Gibbons Creek Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with standards. The dam's spillway width of 1636 feet allows for a maximum discharge of 204,150 cubic feet per second, providing flood control measures for the surrounding area. With its strategic location in Grimes County and close proximity to the Galveston District, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and recreation in the region.

With an intricate system of outlet gates and a history of periodic inspections, Gibbons Creek Dam is a vital infrastructure that contributes to the sustainability of water resources and climate resilience. Its presence not only supports hydroelectric power generation but also offers recreational opportunities for the community. As a key element in the local water management network, the dam symbolizes the intersection of engineering innovation, environmental stewardship, and public safety in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

6150

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

GIBBONS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2770

Hydraulic Height

50

Drainage Area

85

Nid Storage

81874

Structural Height

50

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1, Slide (sluice gate) - 3, Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

50
       
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.