Owens Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Owens Lake Dam, located in Brown County, Texas, was completed in 1974 and serves as a vital water supply structure for the region.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a length of 620 feet, was designed to store 60 acre-feet of water for the West Fork Clear Creek. The primary purpose of the dam is for water supply, reflecting its importance in ensuring a reliable water source for the surrounding communities.
The dam has a high hazard potential and is currently rated as not available in terms of condition assessment. While it is not regulated by the state, it undergoes regular inspections and meets state permitting requirements. The lack of a spillway and limited outlet gates suggest potential challenges in managing water discharge during high flow events. Despite these risks, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management for the area.
Overall, Owens Lake Dam stands as a key infrastructure supporting water supply in Brown County, Texas. With its strategic location and design, the dam serves as a critical resource for the region, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term functionality and safety. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Owens Lake Dam represents a focal point in the management of water supply infrastructure in the area.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
620 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WEST FORK CLEAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Jim Ned Ck At Cr 140 Nr Coleman
|
0cfs |
Hords Ck Nr Coleman
|
0cfs |
Pecan Bayou Nr Cross Cut
|
436cfs |
Pecan Bayou Nr Mullin
|
2cfs |
Colorado Rv Nr Stacy
|
1cfs |
Brady Ck At Brady
|
22cfs |
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.
Owens Lake Dam