Tom East Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Tom East Lake Dam, located in Zapata, Texas, serves as a critical water supply structure for the region.


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Summary

Constructed in 1967, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and spans 660 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet. It regulates the flow of TR-Escobas Creek and plays a vital role in managing water resources in the area.

Despite its importance, Tom East Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition and has a high hazard potential. It lacks a spillway and is not regulated by the state, posing potential risks in case of emergencies. The dam has one outlet gate but lacks comprehensive emergency action plans and risk management measures. These factors underscore the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of this critical infrastructure.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Tom East Lake Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices. With its role in water supply and risk potential, stakeholders and authorities must prioritize monitoring and maintenance to safeguard the dam and the surrounding community. Efforts to enhance emergency preparedness and risk assessment are crucial in mitigating potential threats and ensuring the resilience of this essential water resource structure.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

660

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-ESCOBAS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

180

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.