Trinity Bay Salt Water Barrier Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Trinity Bay Salt Water Barrier, located in Chambers, Texas, serves as a vital structure in managing the water resources of the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1971, this concrete dam stands at a height of 40 feet and stretches over 1050 feet along Elm Bayou. Its primary purpose is listed as 'Other', indicating its significance in controlling the flow of saltwater and safeguarding the freshwater supply in the area.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Trinity Bay Salt Water Barrier plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity of the water supply. With a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 220 acre-feet, the dam provides essential flood control and water management functions for the region. Despite being categorized as having a very high risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to uphold its effectiveness in the face of changing climate conditions.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Trinity Bay Salt Water Barrier represents a key infrastructure piece in Texas' water management system. Its controlled spillway and array of outlet gates highlight its importance in preventing saltwater intrusion and supporting the ecological balance of the surrounding area. As climate change impacts water resources, structures like the Trinity Bay Salt Water Barrier will play an increasingly vital role in safeguarding freshwater supplies and maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
1050 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
ELM BAYOU |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
Flap - 8, Other Controlled - 1, Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Trinity Rv At Wallisville
|
2180cfs |
Coastal Water Authority Canal Nr Dayton
|
907cfs |
Pine Island Bayou Nr Sour Lake
|
89cfs |
Goose Ck At Baytown
|
6cfs |
Trinity Rv At Liberty
|
4490cfs |
Pine Island Bayou Abv Bi Pump Plant
|
400cfs |
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.
Trinity Bay Salt Water Barrier