Benham Lake No 1 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Benham Lake No 1 Dam, located in Erath, Texas, was completed in 1976 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, recreation, and water supply.
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Summary
The dam is classified as an earth dam with a height of 24 feet and a length of 475 feet. It has a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 43 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.2 acres. The primary source agency for the dam is the Texas state government.
Despite its importance for various uses, Benham Lake No 1 Dam does not have a spillway and is listed as having a high risk assessment level. The dam has not been rated for condition assessment and there is limited information available on its hazard potential. The dam is privately owned and does not fall under state regulation or jurisdiction. It is situated on the TR-Paluxy River and is not associated with any federal agencies for funding or oversight.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Benham Lake No 1 Dam to be an intriguing case study due to its multiple purposes and lack of a spillway. The high risk assessment level and limited data on hazard potential raise questions about the dam's safety and emergency preparedness. Further research and monitoring may be necessary to ensure the long-term stability and functionality of this important water resource infrastructure in Texas.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
475 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PALUXY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Paluxy Rv At Glen Rose
|
10cfs |
N Bosque Rv At Hico
|
6cfs |
Leon Rv Nr De Leon
|
0cfs |
Brazos Rv Nr Dennis
|
115cfs |
Brazos Rv Nr Glen Rose
|
31cfs |
Sabana Rv Nr De Leon
|
0cfs |
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.
Benham Lake No 1 Dam