Gaines Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gaines Lake, located in Montague, Texas, is a private recreational lake with a primary purpose of providing leisure activities for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Built in 1977 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam spans 546 feet in length and stands at a height of 30 feet, offering a storage capacity of 147 acre-feet. While the lake does not have a spillway, it boasts one outlet gate for water regulation.

Despite its age, Gaines Lake has not been rated for its condition or undergone recent inspections. However, its hazard potential is deemed not available, with a high risk assessment level of 2. The lake is currently not under the jurisdiction of any state regulatory agency, but does have state permitting and inspection processes in place. With its picturesque setting and ample recreational opportunities, Gaines Lake provides a unique and inviting destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil escape.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

546

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

TR-HERRING BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

147

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.