Matthews Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Matthews Lake Dam, located in Donley County, Texas, was completed in 1960 by the USDA NRCS and serves the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and small fish pond.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 28 feet with a length of 530 feet, this earth dam on Barton Creek has a storage capacity of 191 acre-feet. While not regulated by the state, it does undergo regular inspections and permitting processes to ensure its safety and functionality.

With a surface area of 8 acres and a normal storage capacity of 157 acre-feet, Matthews Lake Dam provides essential water resources for the local community while also serving as a vital habitat for wildlife. Despite the lack of a spillway, the dam's engineering design, with a buttress core type, helps to manage water flow effectively. Although the hazard potential is not currently available, the risk assessment has been classified as high, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts.

Owned privately and situated within the Tulsa District of the USACE, Matthews Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region. The dam's construction by the NRCS underscores a commitment to sustainable resource utilization and environmental stewardship. As a significant feature on Barton Creek, this structure not only supports agricultural activities and fire protection but also contributes to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-BARTON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

191

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
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.