Baldwin Dam, located in Walker County, Texas, is a private-owned structure primarily designed for recreational purposes on the Prairie Branch river.
Wind
Humidity
The dam, constructed with earth and buttress core types, stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 600 feet, providing a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet. Despite its recreational focus, the dam's condition assessment was reported as poor in April 2021, with a high risk level assigned due to its deteriorating state.
Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Baldwin Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with standards. The dam lacks a spillway and locks, with only one outlet gate identified. The last recorded inspection of the dam took place in March 2006, highlighting the need for more frequent assessments to monitor its condition and potential hazards. With no emergency action plan (EAP) in place and limited risk management measures documented, stakeholders may need to address the dam's vulnerabilities to mitigate any safety concerns.
As a focal point for recreation in the area, Baldwin Dam serves as both a leisure destination and a vital water resource. However, its poor condition and high risk designation underscore the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to safeguard its structural integrity and prevent any potential emergencies. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find interest in the complexities of managing and maintaining dams like Baldwin to balance recreational enjoyment with environmental safety.
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
PRAIRIE BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
1.06 |
Nid Storage |
56 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |