Dickson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dickson Lake Dam, located in Clay County, Texas, was completed in 1975 for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

This privately-owned Earth-type dam stands at 21 feet high and spans 531 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-East Fork Little Wichita River, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite its age, Dickson Lake Dam is currently in a state of high risk, with a hazard potential that is not available and a condition assessment that is not rated. The dam lacks a spillway and has no associated locks, making it crucial for proper maintenance and inspection to ensure its structural integrity and prevent potential hazards. Although the dam is not regulated by the state and has limited data available on its design and construction, it remains a vital component of the local water supply infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dickson Lake Dam represents a significant piece of Texas's water management system. With its high-risk assessment and lack of regulatory oversight, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical infrastructure to ensure the safety and reliability of water resources in the region. As efforts continue to address the dam's risk factors and improve its condition, the role of Dickson Lake Dam in providing water for the community remains essential and deserving of attention from those concerned about sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

531

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-EAST FORK LITTLE WICHITA R

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

92

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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.