Barn Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Barn Lake Dam, located in Smith, Texas, is a privately owned Earth dam designed by the USDA NRCS in 1969.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 21 feet, this dam serves various purposes including fire protection, stock, and as a small fish pond, with a storage capacity of 150 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is in good condition and has not been rated for its current state.

With a risk assessment indicating a high level of risk, there is a need for regular inspections and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of Barn Lake Dam. The dam does not have a spillway and is not regulated by the state, making it imperative for the private owner to take responsibility for its maintenance and upkeep. The location on the TR-OLD SABINE RIVER CHANNEL adds to the importance of this structure in water management in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Barn Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam with a unique history and purpose. The dam's association with the Natural Resources Conservation Service and its primary use for fire protection and stock adds to its significance in the local ecosystem. As discussions around water management and infrastructure continue, Barn Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the diverse roles dams play in sustaining water resources and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1969

Dam Length

902

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-OLD SABINE RIVER CHANNEL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

150

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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.