Falls Cattle Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Falls Cattle Lake Dam, also known as Oltorf Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Marlin, Texas.


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Summary

Constructed in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 1060 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 191 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 97 acre-feet, the dam controls the flow of the TR-Bean Branch stream and has a maximum discharge capacity of 4608 cubic feet per second.

Despite being unregulated by the state, Falls Cattle Lake Dam undergoes periodic inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 175 feet and two uncontrolled outlet gates. While its hazard potential and condition assessment are not readily available, the risk assessment categorizes it as having a moderate risk level. Although the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are not specified, the structure remains a critical component for water resource management in the region.

As a significant asset for water resource management in Falls, Texas, Falls Cattle Lake Dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage. With its historic construction and ongoing maintenance by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively. While further details on its emergency preparedness and risk management are lacking, the dam's presence ensures the community's resilience against potential water-related hazards.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

1060

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-BEAN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

191

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.