Horseshoe Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Horseshoe Lake Dam in Fort Bend, Texas, stands as a vital structure for fish and wildlife conservation, as well as recreational activities.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, with a height of 24 feet and length of 1440 feet, was completed in 1960 and serves as a key feature on the OFF CH-BIG CREEK. Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam provides crucial water storage of 57 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 38 acre-feet.

Despite being last inspected in 1983 and not currently rated for condition, Horseshoe Lake Dam still plays a significant role in the local ecosystem and water resource management. With no spillway and limited hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment indicates a high risk level (2). Although lacking detailed information on structural modifications and emergency action plans, the dam continues to be a central point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricate network of dams and water structures, Horseshoe Lake Dam remains a notable site for its contributions to fish and wildlife conservation. With its unique design and historical significance dating back to the 1960s, this dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human intervention and natural ecosystems. Despite the need for updated inspections and risk management measures, the dam's presence in the Fort Bend County landscape underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management practices for future generations.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

1440

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

OFF CH-BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

57

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.