Canyon Lakes Project Dam No 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Canyon Lakes Project Dam No 3, located in Lubbock, Texas, is a stunning example of a recreational dam constructed in 1976 by the renowned design firm Freese and Nichols.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height and hydraulic height of 9 feet, the dam stretches 330 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Yellow House Draw river and serves as a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Canyon Lakes Project Dam No 3 boasts a fair condition assessment and a moderate hazard potential rating. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway, outlet gates, and a drainage area of 214 square miles, making it an essential piece of infrastructure for flood control and water storage in the region. With regular inspections and a designated emergency action plan, the dam ensures the safety and well-being of the surrounding community while contributing to the conservation and management of water resources in the area.
As part of the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Canyon Lakes Project Dam No 3 represents a harmonious blend of engineering excellence and natural beauty. Its role in providing recreational opportunities, flood protection, and water storage highlights the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. Whether admiring its structural design or appreciating its environmental impact, this dam stands as a testament to the vital connection between water resources and climate resilience in the modern era.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
YELLOW HOUSE DRAW |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
214 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Canyon Lakes Project Dam No 3