Calvin Powell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Calvin Powell Dam, located in Grand Saline, Texas, is a private-owned structure primarily designed for recreation purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 14 feet and a length of 300 feet, holds a normal storage capacity of 8 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 13 acre-feet. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 23 feet and two uncontrolled outlet gates.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Calvin Powell Dam has a fair condition assessment as of April 2021. The dam is subject to regular inspections every two years to ensure its safety and structural integrity. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam poses a certain level of risk, but measures are in place to manage and mitigate any potential hazards.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Calvin Powell Dam serves as a recreational hub in Van Zandt County, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and enjoyment. Its presence along the Grand Saline Creek adds to the scenic beauty of the area while also highlighting the importance of proper dam maintenance and regulation to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of water resources.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

UN TR-GRAND SALINE CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

13

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.