Rainbow Lake Dam No 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rainbow Lake Dam No 2, located in Woodway, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1924 primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 22.7 feet and has a hydraulic height of 21 feet, with a total length of 500 feet. It is situated on Fairway Creek and has a normal storage capacity of 27 acre-feet, providing a serene surface area of 1.45 acres for outdoor activities.

Despite its historic significance and recreational value, Rainbow Lake Dam No 2 has been assessed to be in poor condition as of April 2018, with a moderate risk level (3) associated with its maintenance and operation. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in October 2017. While the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and one outlet gate, there are no associated locks for navigation.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Rainbow Lake Dam No 2 can appreciate its role in providing recreational opportunities in the area, while also being mindful of the need for ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. As a privately owned structure with a rich history, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing human activities with environmental stewardship in managing water resources.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

22.7

River Or Stream

FAIRWAY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.45

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

31

Structural Height

22.7

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

23
       
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.