Willow Lake Dam

SHAWNEE CREEK· Rusk, Texas· Built 1914· Earth· 19 ft tall
High Hazard Other Local Government

Key Takeaway

Willow Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1914 and is 112 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 19 ft (taller than 30.6% in TX)
Dam Length600 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage638 acre-ft
Normal Storage313 acre-ft
Surface Area46 acres
Drainage Area4 sq mi
Max Discharge1 cfs
Year Completed1914 (112 years old)
NID IDTX03541

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: June 6, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: TCEQ

Ownership

CITY OF HENDERSON

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Willow Lake Dam?

Willow 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 Willow Lake Dam?

Willow Lake Dam is owned by CITY OF HENDERSON (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Willow Lake Dam built?

Willow 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 Willow Lake Dam?

Willow Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Willow Lake Dam?

Willow 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 Willow Lake Dam last inspected?

Willow Lake Dam was last inspected on June 6, 2018. 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.