Cassin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Cassin Dam, located in Zavala, Texas, was completed in 1942 for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond.


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Summary

This privately owned earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a length of 1045 feet, with a capacity of 80 acre-feet of water. Despite its small size, the dam plays a significant role in providing water resources for the surrounding area, particularly for recreational activities.

The dam, situated on TR-TORTUGAS CREEK, is under state permitting and inspection, ensuring its safety and functionality. However, with a high hazard potential and a risk assessment rating of 2, it is essential to continue monitoring and implementing risk management measures to prevent any potential disasters. Although the dam's condition assessment is not rated, its role in water resource management makes it a crucial structure for climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals to keep an eye on.

With no spillway and a limited drainage area, Cassin Dam serves as a vital resource for the local community while also posing potential risks if not properly managed. Its association with fire protection, small-scale stock, and recreational activities highlights the diverse uses of water resources in the area. As advocates for sustainable water management and climate resilience, it is important to stay updated on the maintenance and monitoring of Cassin Dam to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the future.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

1045

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TR-TORTUGAS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

10

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.