Upper George Ross Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper George Ross Lake Dam, located in Bastrop, Texas, is a private-owned structure that stands as a key component in managing water resources in the area.


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Summary

The dam, built on Spicer Creek, is primarily used for purposes other than flood control or hydropower generation. Standing at a height of 16 feet and a length of 1030 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet, serving the surrounding community with essential water resources.

Despite not being state-regulated, Upper George Ross Lake Dam undergoes regular state inspection and permitting to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and one outlet gate, allowing for the controlled release of excess water. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is considered to have a manageable level of risk, indicating a need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its functionality and safety standards.

Although the dam's original designer is unknown, its construction and operation have been overseen by private entities. The dam's key features and specifications, along with its location and purpose, make it a significant asset in the management of water resources and climate-related challenges in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and monitoring structures like Upper George Ross Lake Dam are crucial for ensuring sustainable water management practices and mitigating potential risks associated with extreme weather events.

Dam Length

1030

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

SPICER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

726

Nid Storage

48

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.