Dawson Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Spring Lake Dam Baldwin Dam
Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Dawson Lake Dam, located in Walker County, Texas, was completed in 1970 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-McDonald Creek.
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Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans 550 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 102 acre-feet. The dam's normal storage capacity is 72 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 6.42 acres and serving a drainage area of 0.19 square miles. Despite its age, the dam has been deemed to be in poor condition, with a recent inspection in April 2021 highlighting the need for maintenance and improvements.
The dam's spillway, which is uncontrolled and 280 feet in width, can handle a maximum discharge of 2546 cubic feet per second. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its structural integrity and safety. As the dam is designated as having a moderate risk level, it is crucial for authorities to implement proper risk management measures to mitigate any potential hazards and protect the surrounding community in Huntsville.
With its proximity to residential areas and the potential for flooding events, Dawson Lake Dam plays a vital role in safeguarding the local population from water-related risks. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to monitor the dam's condition and advocate for necessary upgrades to enhance its functionality and resilience in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water management challenges.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MCDONALD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.42 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
0.19 |
Nid Storage |
102 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
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