Welder Lake No 1 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Welder Lake No 1 Dam, located in La Salle, Texas, was completed in 1944 and serves as a crucial water supply structure.


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Summary

The primary purpose of this Earth dam, with a height of 14 feet and length of 1268 feet, is to provide water storage for various needs. With a normal storage capacity of 380 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 900 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in ensuring water availability in the region.

The dam, situated on the TR-Nueces River, is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement measures. The structure features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 150 feet and two uncontrolled outlet gates. While the hazard potential and condition assessment of the dam are not available, the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level (3). Although the last inspection date was in 1978, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively under private ownership.

With its strategic location and critical role in water resource management, Welder Lake No 1 Dam stands as a significant infrastructure contributing to the water supply needs of the area. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the design, function, and regulatory oversight of such dams is essential in ensuring sustainable water management practices. The data on this dam provides valuable insights into its characteristics and importance in the region's water infrastructure landscape.

Year Completed

1944

Dam Length

1268

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-NUECES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

52

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

900

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.