Happy J Ranch Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Happy J Ranch Lake Dam, located in Fannin, Texas, was constructed in 1973 by the USDA NRCS for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

This private earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 706 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is not currently rated for condition assessment, and there are no inspection frequency or emergency action plan details available.

Situated on TR-Bullard Creek, the Happy J Ranch Lake Dam does not have a spillway and features a buttress core type with an unlisted foundation. While not state-regulated, the dam does require permitting and inspection by Texas authorities. Its risk assessment notes a high risk level of 2, highlighting the need for proper risk management measures and the establishment of emergency contacts and inundation maps. With its picturesque surroundings and critical role in water resource management, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water infrastructure for the benefit of both humans and wildlife in the area.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

706

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-BULLARD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

124

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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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.