Finley Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Finley Lake Dam, located in Zavala, Texas, serves as a crucial water supply source for the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1939, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and stretches over a length of 1100 feet. With a storage capacity of 660 acre-feet, it plays a vital role in ensuring water availability for the surrounding area. Despite being a private-owned structure, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to ensure its safety and functionality.

With its primary purpose being water supply, Finley Lake Dam holds a significant position in the local water resource management system. The dam, constructed with buttress core type and unlisted/unknown foundation, contributes to the regulation of water levels and sustains a surface area of 14 acres. While it does not have a spillway, the dam features an outlet gate to manage water flow. In terms of risk assessment, the dam is classified as having a high risk potential, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to mitigate any potential hazards.

The presence of Finley Lake Dam underscores the critical role of water infrastructure in climate resilience and resource management. As an essential component of the region's water supply network, the dam's functionality and safety are closely monitored by regulatory authorities. By providing a reliable water storage capacity and contributing to water security in the area, Finley Lake Dam stands as a vital asset in the sustainable utilization of water resources amidst changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR-CHAPARROSA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

660

Structural Height

11

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.