Marsh Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Marsh Lake Dam, located in Wood, Texas, is a private structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1973 for recreational and water supply purposes along the Red Branch river.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 25 feet with a length of 465 feet, this earth dam with a buttress core type offers a maximum storage capacity of 98 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam's hazard potential is not currently available, and its condition remains unrated as of the last inspection in March 1983.

Although not regulated by the state, Marsh Lake Dam is subject to state permitting and inspection requirements, signaling a commitment to safety and compliance in its operations. The dam lacks a spillway and associated locks, highlighting potential limitations in its flood control capabilities. With a risk assessment rating of "High (2)", there may be a need for enhanced risk management measures to ensure the structural integrity and safety of the dam for both recreational users and the surrounding community. Overall, Marsh Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental risk.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

465

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

RED BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

98

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.