Lightfoot Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lightfoot Dam, located in Smith County, Texas, was completed in 1975 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and as a small fish pond.


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Summary

This private earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and has a length of 387 feet, with a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-Bell Branch river and is under the jurisdiction of the state with permitting and inspection requirements in place.

Despite its primary purpose being classified as 'Other', Lightfoot Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. With a high hazard potential rating of 2 and a risk assessment indicating a high level of risk, the dam requires regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam lacks a spillway and has no associated locks, emphasizing the need for proper management and emergency preparedness.

Managed by a private owner, Lightfoot Dam highlights the importance of sustainable water resource practices and climate resilience. As a key structure in the region, its significance extends beyond its immediate functions, symbolizing the intricate balance between human development and environmental conservation. The presence of the dam underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and risk management measures to safeguard both the local community and the surrounding ecosystem from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

387

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-BELL BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

48

Structural Height

27

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

27
       
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.