Katy Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Katy Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 30 ft (taller than 67.1% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 1,310 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 87 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 12 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 7,809 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1902 (124 years old) |
| NID ID | TX01279 |
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
KATY LAKE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
Private
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High Hazard 46 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Katy Lake Dam?
Katy Lake 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 Katy Lake Dam?
Katy Lake Dam is owned by KATY LAKE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Katy Lake Dam built?
Katy Lake Dam was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Katy Lake Dam?
Katy Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Katy Lake Dam?
Katy Lake Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Katy Lake Dam last inspected?
Katy Lake Dam was last inspected on November 12, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.