Unicorn Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Unicorn Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1917 and is 109 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 | 13 ft (taller than 10.2% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 273 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 88 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,745 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1917 (109 years old) |
| NID ID | TX00614 |
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
MICHAEL SMITH
Private
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High Hazard 17 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Unicorn Lake Dam?
Unicorn 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 Unicorn Lake Dam?
Unicorn Lake Dam is owned by MICHAEL SMITH (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Unicorn Lake Dam built?
Unicorn Lake Dam was completed in 1917, making it 109 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 Unicorn Lake Dam?
Unicorn 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 Unicorn Lake Dam?
Unicorn Lake Dam has a dam height of 13 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 Unicorn Lake Dam last inspected?
Unicorn Lake Dam was last inspected on June 1, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.