Ballinger Municipal Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ballinger Municipal Lake Dam, located in Runnels County, Texas, is a key water resource structure that serves multiple purposes, including recreation and water supply.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1985, stands at a height of 76 feet and has a length of 6200 feet, creating a reservoir with a maximum storage capacity of 34,353 acre-feet. The dam is primarily an earth structure with a stone core and an uncontrolled spillway, designed by HDR.

The dam's reservoir, fed by Valley Creek, covers an area of 560 acres and supports various recreational activities for the local community. Despite being classified as having a fair condition assessment, the dam is regularly inspected by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations. With a moderate risk level, the dam poses a potential hazard that is actively monitored and managed by local authorities.

Ballinger Municipal Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing water supply and recreational opportunities for the residents of Ballinger and surrounding areas. Its strategic location, efficient design, and regulatory oversight make it a valuable asset in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Texas.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

6200

Dam Height

76

River Or Stream

VALLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

560

Hydraulic Height

76

Drainage Area

234

Nid Storage

34353

Structural Height

76

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

76
       
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.