Bitner Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bitner Lake Dam, located in Harrison, Texas, was completed in 1960 and has a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 14 feet and a length of 360 feet, is classified as an Earth dam with a Buttress core type. It has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 10 acre-feet. Despite its recreational focus, the dam does not have a spillway and is not regulated by the state.

With a hazard potential labeled as "Not Available" and a risk assessment rating of "High (2)", Bitner Lake Dam may present some risks for the surrounding area in case of failure. However, the dam's condition has not been rated, and there is no information available on emergency action plans or risk management measures in place. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in May 1989, raising concerns about the need for updated assessments and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both recreation and potential water resource management in the region.

As a private-owned dam situated on the TR-Little Cypress Bayou, Bitner Lake Dam provides opportunities for recreational activities in the area. However, with limited information available on its current condition and risk management strategies, there is a call for increased attention and oversight to address any potential safety concerns and ensure the sustainable use of this water resource for both recreational and environmental purposes in the future.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE CYPRESS BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.