Forest Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Forest Lake Dam, located in Gregg County, Texas, is a private-owned structure built in 1970 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 37 feet, this earth dam on Johnson Branch is designed with a buttress core type. With a storage capacity of 750 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity that is not specified, the dam serves primarily for recreation and has no spillway. Despite its hazard potential being unavailable and condition not rated, the dam presents a high risk level according to the data available.

The dam, managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), undergoes state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The structure, with no associated buildings, is not owned or funded by any federal agency and has no federal involvement in its design, construction, operation, or other aspects. While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not provided, it is essential to monitor and assess the dam's condition to ensure the safety of the surrounding community, environment, and water resources.

Forest Lake Dam, nestled within the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, serves as a vital recreational resource in the area. With its picturesque location and significant storage capacity, the dam plays a crucial role in enhancing the local landscape and providing opportunities for outdoor activities. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding the structural integrity and risk assessment of dams like Forest Lake Dam becomes increasingly important for ensuring sustainable water management practices and safeguarding against potential hazards.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

JOHNSON BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

37

Nid Storage

750

Structural Height

37

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

37
       
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.