Dolph Briscoe Lake No 8 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dolph Briscoe Lake No 8 Dam, located in Dimmit County, Texas, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and engineering prowess.


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Summary

Completed in 1974, this earth-type dam with a buttress core is designed to hold back the waters of the TR-Carrizo Creek, providing a storage capacity of 118 acre-feet. With a structural height of 14 feet and a length of 1200 feet, this dam serves a primary purpose that goes beyond flood control and water storage.

Despite its age, Dolph Briscoe Lake No 8 Dam has not been rated for condition assessment, leaving its risk potential marked as high. However, the lack of a spillway and limited outlet gates present unique challenges for managing water levels and mitigating potential hazards. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the presence of such structures prompts us to reflect on the delicate balance between human intervention and nature's forces, underscoring the importance of regular inspection, maintenance, and emergency preparedness in safeguarding our water resources.

As we delve deeper into the data surrounding Dolph Briscoe Lake No 8 Dam, we are reminded of the interconnectedness of water infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and community resilience. While the dam may not be under federal jurisdiction, its impact on the surrounding ecosystem and local communities cannot be understated. The risk potential and lack of regulatory oversight serve as a call to action for stakeholders to prioritize the safety and sustainability of our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-CARRIZO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

118

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.