Van Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Van Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 36 ft (taller than 79.5% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 1,015 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 90 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,913 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1949 (77 years old) |
| NID ID | TX00304 |
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
ETX PARAGON LTD
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Van Lake Dam?
Van 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 Van Lake Dam?
Van Lake Dam is owned by ETX PARAGON LTD (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Van Lake Dam built?
Van Lake Dam was completed in 1949, making it 77 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 Van Lake Dam?
Van Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Van Lake Dam?
Van Lake Dam has a dam height of 36 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 Van Lake Dam last inspected?
Van Lake Dam was last inspected on May 24, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.