La Casita Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

La Casita Dam, located in Starr County, Texas, was completed in 1966 with a primary purpose of irrigation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Managed by a private owner and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans 1200 feet in length along the TR-Rio Grande. The dam has a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, irrigation, and recreation.

Operated by the USDA NRCS, La Casita Dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 243 feet and three uncontrolled outlet gates. The dam's hazard potential is not available, but it has a moderate risk assessment rating. The last inspection conducted in February 2016 revealed a condition assessment that was not rated. Despite its age, the dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management within the region, supporting agricultural activities and providing essential water supplies for the local community along the Rio Grande. As a key infrastructure for water storage and distribution, La Casita Dam remains a significant asset in ensuring water security and climate resilience in the area.

Years Modified

2010 - Other

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-RIO GRANDE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

2.3

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

View more

Nearby Streamflow Levels

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.