Derek Lambert Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Derek Lambert Dam, located in Hopkins County, Texas, was completed in 1993 with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam, designed by USDA NRCS, stands at a height of 14 feet and spans a length of 619 feet. It has a storage capacity of 88 acre-feet and serves as a vital resource for the local community. Despite not having a spillway, the dam has been inspected for safety and is considered to have a high risk potential, indicating the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring.
Managed by a private entity, Derek Lambert Dam plays a critical role in regulating the flow of Turkey Creek and providing recreational opportunities for the surrounding area. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, its significance in water resource management cannot be understated. With no federal agency involvement in ownership, funding, or regulatory oversight, the responsibility falls on the private owner to ensure the dam's integrity and functionality for both water conservation and recreational purposes.
As an essential infrastructure for water storage and recreational activities, Derek Lambert Dam highlights the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in Texas. With its unique design and high risk potential, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water structures. Enthusiasts in water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the role that dams like Derek Lambert Dam play in balancing the needs of communities and the environment.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
619 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TURKEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Derek Lambert Dam