Lake Tejas Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Tejas Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1935 and is 91 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 | 18 ft (taller than 25.8% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 217 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 100 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 461 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1935 (91 years old) |
| NID ID | TX03773 |
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
COLMESNEIL ISD
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Tejas Dam?
Lake Tejas 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 Tejas Dam?
Lake Tejas Dam is owned by COLMESNEIL ISD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Tejas Dam built?
Lake Tejas Dam was completed in 1935, making it 91 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 Tejas Dam?
Lake Tejas 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 Tejas Dam?
Lake Tejas Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Tejas Dam last inspected?
Lake Tejas Dam was last inspected on April 20, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.