Deer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Lake Dam, located in Franklin, Texas, is a unique structure with a core type of Buttress and a height of 16 feet.


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Summary

The dam has a storage capacity of 134 acre-feet and serves a primary purpose that is categorized as "Other." Interestingly, the dam does not have a spillway and is not regulated by the state, making it an intriguing subject for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Despite its modest size and lack of certain features like a spillway, Deer Lake Dam has been assessed with a high risk potential, indicating potential challenges in managing its operations and ensuring its safety. The dam's last inspection date was in December 2015, with no recent updates on its condition assessment or emergency preparedness measures. Its association with state permitting and inspection requirements adds a layer of complexity to its management and maintenance, raising questions about the dam's long-term sustainability in the face of changing climate conditions.

As a structure that is not owned or funded by federal agencies, Deer Lake Dam presents a unique case study for understanding the dynamics of dam ownership and regulation at the state level. Its location in Franklin, Texas, within the jurisdiction of the Fort Worth District, adds to its significance as a local water resource. With a risk assessment indicating a high level of potential hazards, Deer Lake Dam serves as a focal point for discussions on risk management and climate resilience in the context of smaller-scale dam structures.

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

Nid Storage

134

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.