Burns Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Burns Reservoir Dam Thompson Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Burns Reservoir is a private dam located in La Salle, Texas, with a primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and was completed in 1949, providing a maximum storage capacity of 1,732 acre-feet. The reservoir is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections, with a very high risk assessment rating.
Situated on Martin Branch, Burns Reservoir features a controlled spillway with a width of 200 feet. While the surface area and drainage area are not specified, the reservoir offers recreational opportunities in addition to its irrigation functions. Despite being unlisted in terms of foundations, the dam is primarily constructed of stone, with outlet gates that include one controlled and two uncontrolled gates.
Although the last inspection date recorded was in 1975, the risk assessment for Burns Reservoir remains very high. The condition assessment is not rated, and there is no information available on emergency action plans or risk management measures. Overall, this reservoir presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
2400 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
MARTIN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
1732 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1, Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Frio Rv Nr Derby
|
0cfs |
Nueces Rv At Cotulla
|
0cfs |
San Miguel Ck Nr Tilden
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0cfs |
Frio Rv At Tilden
|
1cfs |
Nueces Rv Nr Asherton
|
0cfs |
Nueces Rv Nr Tilden
|
0cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Burns Reservoir