Addicks Reservoir

The Addicks Reservoir and Addicks Dam in conjunction with the Barker Reservoir prevent downstream flooding of Buffalo Bayou in the City of Houston. Both reservoirs were authorized under the Rivers and Harbors Act of June 20, 1938, which were modified by the Flood Control Acts of August 11, 1938; September 3, 1954; and October 27, 1965.

Location

Addicks Reservoir is situated on the north side of Interstate 10, it extends slight north of Clay Rd., and between Barker-Cypress Rd. to the west and Sam Houston Tollway to the east. Texas State Highway 6 bisects the reservoir north to south. In addition the Reservoir's flood damage reduction mission, recreation and nature observation opportunities abound through the approximately 26,000 acres of land that makes up Addicks and Barker reservoirs.

The Addicks Reservoir spillway is located at, 29°47′25.99″N 95°37′24.04″W, and releases the remainder of Bear Creek just north of Buffalo Bayou.

Addicks Reservoir and Dam get their name from the former town of Addicks, TX.

Construction

Addicks Reservoir is formed by a rolled earthen dam 61,666 feet long and above the streambed. A 12-foot wide gravel road extends along the top of the dam. The top of the dam has a maximum elevation of 122.7 feet above the N.G.V.D.

Benefits

It is estimated the Addicks and Barker Reservoirs, along with other federal construction projects on Buffalo Bayou and its tributaries, will prevent average annual flood damages of $16,372,000 to the city of Houston.

Recreation

Several parks are scattered throughout the reservoir, including Bear Creek Pioneers Park and hike/bike/horse trails. Traveling along the rim of the rolled earthen dam along the gravel road can provide a great vantage point for spotting wildlife within the reservoir as well as a surreal experience with the city lying on the other side.