Porter Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Porter Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1914 and is 112 years old. Its primary use is fire protection. 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 | 16 ft (taller than 19.7% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 1,220 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 196 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 117 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 3 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1914 (112 years old) |
| NID ID | TX03373 |
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
PORTER FARMS
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Porter Lake Dam?
Porter 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 Porter Lake Dam?
Porter Lake Dam is owned by PORTER FARMS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Porter Lake Dam built?
Porter Lake Dam was completed in 1914, making it 112 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 Porter Lake Dam?
Porter Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Porter Lake Dam?
Porter Lake Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Porter Lake Dam last inspected?
Porter Lake Dam was last inspected on October 20, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.