Lower West Lake Dam

LITTLE SANDY CREEK· Wood, Texas· Built 1934· Earth· 19 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lower West Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 19 ft (taller than 30.6% in TX)
Dam Length1,240 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage500 acre-ft
Normal Storage240 acre-ft
Surface Area0 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge3,201 cfs
Year Completed1934 (92 years old)
NID IDTX00930

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 24, 2019
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: TCEQ

Ownership

WEST LAKES CLUB INC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lower West Lake Dam?

Lower West Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lower West Lake Dam?

Lower West Lake Dam is owned by WEST LAKES CLUB INC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lower West Lake Dam built?

Lower West Lake Dam was completed in 1934, making it 92 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 Lower West Lake Dam?

Lower West 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 Lower West Lake Dam?

Lower West Lake Dam has a dam height of 19 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 Lower West Lake Dam last inspected?

Lower West Lake Dam was last inspected on June 24, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.