Texas Gulf Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Texas Gulf Reservoir Dam, located in Wharton, Texas, is a privately owned structure that serves a variety of purposes, including tailings management.
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Summary
Completed in 1929, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans a length of 13,300 feet. With a storage capacity of 2,875 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, especially along the CH-San Bernard River.
Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam is regularly inspected, enforced, and permitted to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its age, the dam has a very high risk assessment rating, indicating the potential for significant consequences in the event of failure. With controlled spillways and outlet gates in place, the dam is equipped to handle emergencies and mitigate risks to the surrounding area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Texas Gulf Reservoir Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship. As a key component of the region's water infrastructure, this dam plays a vital role in supporting agricultural, industrial, and residential needs while also safeguarding against potential hazards. Its history, design, and ongoing management provide valuable insights into the complex challenges and opportunities associated with water resources in Texas.
Year Completed |
1929 |
Dam Length |
13300 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
OFF CH-SAN BERNARD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
2875 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1, Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
San Bernard Rv Nr Boling
|
136cfs |
Colorado Rv At Wharton
|
333cfs |
Big Ck Nr Needville
|
45cfs |
Brazos Rv Nr Rosharon
|
2110cfs |
Dry Ck Nr Rosenberg
|
84cfs |
Colorado Rv Nr Bay City
|
2670cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Texas Gulf Reservoir Dam