Sonny Oats Lake No 1 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Upshur, Texas, the Sonny Oats Lake No 1 Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence since its completion in 1960.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam, with a height of 19 feet and a length of 475 feet, serves a variety of purposes including water storage and flood control along TR-Clear Creek. With a maximum storage capacity of 170 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 93 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its age, the Sonny Oats Lake No 1 Dam has not been rated for its condition, presenting a potential hazard due to its high risk level. With no spillway and limited inspection data available, the dam's risk management measures are uncertain. However, with a solid buttress core design and one outlet gate, the dam continues to provide essential water storage for the surrounding area. As climate change impacts water resources, the significance of structures like the Sonny Oats Lake No 1 Dam only grows, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure safety and resilience in the face of evolving conditions.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

475

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

TR-CLEAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

170

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

19
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds

Location Reservations Toilets
Sonny Oats Lake No 1 DamOld Camp Preview Old Camp
Sonny Oats Lake No 1 Damcamp Mabey Preview camp Mabey
Sonny Oats Lake No 1 DamCamp Gilmont Preview Camp Gilmont