Md Heatly Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Md Heatly Dam, located in Hays, Texas, along the Pecan Springs river, was completed in 1965 for the primary purpose of irrigation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Owned privately and designed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet with a length of 500 feet. With a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet, the dam also serves recreational purposes, covering a surface area of 10 acres.

Despite being a private structure, Md Heatly Dam is regulated by the state of Texas with permitting and inspection requirements in place. With a hazard potential rating of "Not Available" and a risk assessment of "High (2)", the dam poses potential risks that need to be managed effectively. The lack of spillway and limited discharge capacity highlight the importance of regular inspections and adherence to safety guidelines to prevent any potential emergencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Md Heatly Dam serves as a notable structure in Texas, showcasing the intersection of human engineering with natural water systems. Its role in providing irrigation water and recreational opportunities underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of increasing climate variability. As efforts to address climate change intensify, understanding and monitoring dams like Md Heatly becomes crucial for ensuring the long-term resilience of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

PECAN SPRINGS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
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.