Dam 51 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dam 51, also known as Nolan Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Bell County, Texas along the North Nolan Creek.


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Summary

The dam, designed by the USDA NRCS, stands at a height of 62 feet and stretches 2,193 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 6,025 acre-feet. With a surface area of 34 acres and a drainage area of 8 square miles, Dam 51 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Managed by the US Army, Dam 51 serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water supply. Its uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 140 feet, adds to its high hazard potential. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a risk assessment rating of moderate, stakeholders must prioritize risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding communities.

In the hands of dedicated federal agencies like the US Army and the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Dam 51 stands as a testament to collaborative efforts in water infrastructure development and regulation. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Dam 51 play a vital role in ensuring water security and mitigating the risks associated with extreme weather events. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dam 51 serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.

Dam Length

2193

Dam Height

62

River Or Stream

North Nolan Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

34

Drainage Area

8

Nid Storage

6025

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

62
       
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.