Lake Happy Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Happy Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 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 | 810 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 84 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 44 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,501 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1974 (52 years old) |
| NID ID | TX05884 |
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
KERRVILLE STATE HOSPITAL
State Government
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Significant Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Happy Dam?
Lake Happy 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 Lake Happy Dam?
Lake Happy Dam is owned by KERRVILLE STATE HOSPITAL (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Happy Dam built?
Lake Happy Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Lake Happy Dam?
Lake Happy 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 Lake Happy Dam?
Lake Happy 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 Lake Happy Dam last inspected?
Lake Happy Dam was last inspected on November 12, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.