Barker Dam
Key Takeaway
Barker Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1945 and is 81 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 37 ft (taller than 80.8% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 71,900 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 209.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1 acres |
| Drainage Area | 130 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 8,730 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1945 (81 years old) |
| NID ID | TX00019 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USACE - Galveston District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Barker Dam?
Barker Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Barker Dam?
Barker Dam is owned by USACE - Galveston District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Barker Dam built?
Barker Dam was completed in 1945, making it 81 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Barker Dam?
Barker Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Barker Dam?
Barker Dam has a dam height of 37 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Barker Dam last inspected?
Barker Dam was last inspected on November 17, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.