Head Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Head Lake Dam in Mills, Texas, stands as a vital structure providing water supply for the region since its completion in 1976.


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Summary

This private-owned Earth dam, with a height of 18 feet and a length of 666 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 75 acre-feet, serving the surrounding area through its water supply purpose. Situated on the Pigfoot Hollow stream, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, contributing to the overall water security and sustainability efforts.

Despite its importance, Head Lake Dam poses a high risk due to its condition assessment being not rated, highlighting the need for regular inspections and potential risk management measures. With no spillway and minimal regulatory oversight, the dam's hazard potential is not available, raising concerns for its long-term safety and functionality. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and addressing the risks associated with Head Lake Dam is crucial in ensuring the continued availability of water supply and mitigating potential hazards in the area.

Given its location in a high-risk zone and lack of regulatory enforcement, Head Lake Dam serves as a focal point for discussions on improving dam safety and emergency preparedness measures. Engaging with local authorities and stakeholders to enhance risk assessment, inspection frequency, and emergency action plans can contribute to better managing the dam's potential hazards. As advocates for sustainable water management practices, advocating for the proper maintenance and monitoring of Head Lake Dam is essential in safeguarding both water resources and the surrounding community from potential risks and impacts.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

666

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

PIGFOOT HOLLOW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

75

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.