Portland Cement Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Portland Cement Reservoir Dam, located in El Paso, Texas, is a privately owned structure built in 1909 to serve as a water resource for the surrounding area.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 37 feet and with a maximum storage capacity of 192 acre-feet, this earth dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow along the Rio Grande River. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition and is regularly inspected, regulated, and enforced by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

With a primary purpose of "Other" and a hazard potential deemed "Not Available," the Portland Cement Reservoir Dam presents a unique yet essential component of the water management infrastructure in the region. The dam lacks a spillway and has no locks, but features one outlet gate to control water flow. Its risk assessment is rated as "High (2)," indicating the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of the structure. The dam's association with the Rio Grande River underscores its significance in supporting both water resource management and environmental sustainability.

As a key asset in the water management system of El Paso, the Portland Cement Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to the engineering and design efforts of its time. While its primary purpose and risk assessment may set it apart from other dams, its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight highlight its importance in ensuring water security for the surrounding communities. Climate and water resource enthusiasts would find the Portland Cement Reservoir Dam a fascinating subject for further exploration and study in the realm of dam engineering and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1909

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

37

River Or Stream

TR-RIO GRANDE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

40

Nid Storage

192

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

40
       
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.
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