Don Bethard Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Henderson Lake Dam Safady Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Don Bethard Lake Dam, located in Upshur, Texas, was completed in 1993 by USDA NRCS and serves as a vital structure for the conservation of fish and wildlife in the area.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 25 feet, with a length of 521 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 137 acre-feet and covers a drainage area of 0.42 square miles along TR-Kelsey Creek. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the state and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
With a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond, the Don Bethard Lake Dam also caters to recreational activities in the region. It is classified as an Earth dam with a Buttress core type, designed to withstand the hydraulic pressure of its surrounding waters. Although the dam lacks a spillway, its construction and maintenance adhere to state permitting requirements, highlighting its commitment to environmental safety and conservation efforts. As a key player in the local ecosystem, the dam is a crucial resource for water management and habitat preservation in the area.
Managed by private owners and supported by state agencies, Don Bethard Lake Dam plays a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience in Upshur, Texas. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam remains in good condition and meets regulatory guidelines, ensuring the safety of nearby communities and the longevity of its ecological impact. As a symbol of collaboration between private and public entities, the dam stands as a beacon of sustainable water management practices and environmental stewardship for future generations to come.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
521 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-KELSEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
0.42 |
Nid Storage |
137 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Sandy Ck Nr Big Sandy
|
88cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Gladewater
|
451cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Hawkins
|
243cfs |
Little Cypress Ck Nr Ore City
|
120cfs |
Sabine Rv Abv Longview
|
498cfs |
Rabbit Ck At Kilgore
|
24cfs |
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.
Don Bethard Lake Dam