Pessink Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pessink Lake Dam, located in Smith County, Texas, stands as a private-owned Earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

This dam, with a structural height of 17.6 feet and a length of 525 feet, creates a reservoir that offers a surface area of 7 acres and a normal storage capacity of 44 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its recreational focus, Pessink Lake Dam has received an unsatisfactory condition assessment, indicating potential issues that require attention. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates for water release, with a maximum discharge rate of 1 cubic foot per second. The risk assessment for this dam is moderate, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and risk management measures to prevent any potential hazards. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is essential to prioritize maintenance and safety protocols to uphold the integrity of the structure and protect the surrounding area from any adverse impacts.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the unique features of Pessink Lake Dam, from its recreational function to its regulatory oversight and risk management considerations. As a vital component of the local water infrastructure, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for ongoing vigilance in maintaining dam safety and compliance with regulatory standards. By staying informed about the condition and operation of dams like Pessink Lake Dam, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation of water resources and environmental resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

17.6

River Or Stream

TR-RODDY BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

17.6

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

17.6

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.