Peterson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Peterson Lake Dam, located in Zavala, Texas, is a privately-owned structure built in 1958 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at 13 feet tall and stretches 1400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 494 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Sand Ridge Creek, this dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite its age, Peterson Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition, with no recent inspection data available. However, it is noted to have a high risk assessment level of 2, indicating the potential for hazard. While the dam does not have a spillway, it is equipped with one outlet gate. The lack of detailed information on maintenance and emergency preparedness raises concerns about the long-term sustainability and safety of the dam.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Peterson Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management of small-scale water infrastructure. With its unique design features and historical significance, there is a need for increased monitoring and evaluation to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this essential water resource. The dam's location in Texas' Fort Worth District adds to its importance within the regional water management network.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

1400

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR-SAND RIDGE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

494

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.