Nopalosa Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: San Ramon Dam Martinez Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 28, 2025
Nopalosa Reservoir Dam, located in Webb County, Texas, stands as a significant water resource infrastructure designed primarily for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
Completed in 1927, this privately-owned earth dam stretches 2800 feet in length and reaches a height of 37 feet, with a storage capacity of 2812 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the scenic Becerra Creek and serves as a vital component for agricultural activities in the region.
Despite being under state jurisdiction and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Nopalosa Reservoir Dam has undergone modifications in 1977 to enhance its structural integrity. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway, two uncontrolled and one valve outlet gates, and has a drainage area of 24 square miles. The dam's condition remains unrated, and it undergoes inspections every five years to ensure its operational effectiveness and safety standards are maintained.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Nopalosa Reservoir Dam presents a fascinating case study of a historic infrastructure supporting irrigation and recreational activities in the region. As a crucial element of the local water management system, this dam exemplifies the intricate balance between agricultural needs, environmental considerations, and infrastructure maintenance within the context of Texas' water resource management framework.
Years Modified |
1977 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1927 |
Dam Length |
2800 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
BECERRA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
217 |
Hydraulic Height |
37 |
Drainage Area |
24 |
Nid Storage |
2812 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rio Grande At Laredo
|
1760cfs |
Zacate Ck At Laredo
|
0cfs |
San Casimiro Ck Nr Freer
|
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.
Nopalosa Reservoir Dam