Richards Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 2, 2026
The Richards Lake Dam in Cottle, Texas, was completed in 1968 and serves multiple purposes such as fire protection, stock, small fish pond, recreation, and other uses.
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Summary
This private earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet with a length of 950 feet, providing a storage capacity of 325 acre-feet. Located on the TR-Salt Creek, this dam has a high risk assessment rating of 2, indicating the need for diligent risk management measures.
Although not regulated by the state, the Richards Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections and permitting. The dam does not have a spillway and is equipped with one outlet gate. The condition of the dam is currently not rated, but it is considered to have high hazard potential. With a lack of inundation maps and emergency preparedness procedures in place, there is a need for increased safety measures and risk assessment for this vital water resource structure.
Despite its private ownership, the Richards Lake Dam plays a crucial role in the local water supply and recreational activities. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam presents both opportunities and challenges for sustainable management and preservation in the face of potential hazards and risks. It is essential for stakeholders to prioritize safety and maintenance efforts to ensure the long-term viability of this important infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
950 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SALT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
325 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Richards Lake Dam