Duffey Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Duffey Lake Dam, located in Upshur County, Texas, is a privately owned Earth-type dam that was completed in 1977.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 18 feet and spans a length of 650 feet, creating a storage capacity of 137 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is listed as "Other", with no specified purposes, and it is situated on TR-Little Walnut Creek.

Despite being a privately owned structure, Duffey Lake Dam falls under state jurisdiction with permitting and inspection requirements in place. The dam has a high risk assessment rating of 2, but its hazard potential is not available. It lacks a spillway and has no locks associated with it. The dam is not regulated by the state and enforcement is not applicable.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Duffey Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study with its unique design and operational characteristics. Its location in Texas, along with its storage capacity and risk assessment profile, make it an interesting subject for further research and analysis within the realm of water resource management and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE WALNUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

137

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.