Dearing Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Worth Dam Tuck Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Dearing Dam, located in Kerr County, Texas, stands as a vital Earth-type dam built by the USDA NRCS in 1968 along the TR-Bruins Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 20 feet and a length of 767 feet, this private-owned structure serves a primary purpose that goes beyond typical water storage. While the dam boasts a maximum storage capacity of 76 acre-feet, it is rated with a high risk assessment level of 2 due to unspecified reasons, making it an intriguing subject for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Despite lacking certain regulatory oversight and hazard potential information, Dearing Dam remains a remarkable engineering feat in the Galveston District. The dam's condition is currently not rated, and it is not subject to inspections or enforcement by state agencies. The absence of spillways and locks, as well as the limited information on its drainage area and discharge capabilities, adds to the enigma surrounding this structure. Given its non-traditional primary purpose and unique design elements, Dearing Dam presents an intriguing case study for those interested in exploring the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience strategies in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve deeper into the intricacies of Dearing Dam's design and operational history, questions arise about its emergency preparedness measures and risk management strategies. The lack of available data on emergency action plans, inundation maps, and condition assessment reports raises concerns about the dam's ability to withstand potential hazards or natural disasters. With its high-risk classification and the absence of key information, Dearing Dam serves as a compelling case study for researchers and policymakers seeking to improve the resilience of critical infrastructure in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
767 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BRUINS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
76 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Guadalupe Rv At Comfort
|
56cfs |
Guadalupe Rv Nr Center Point
|
51cfs |
Medina Rv At Bandera
|
6cfs |
Guadalupe Rv At Kerrville
|
52cfs |
Cibolo Ck Nr Boerne
|
2cfs |
Guadalupe Rv Abv Bear Ck At Kerrville
|
58cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Dearing Dam