Garza Lake No 2 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Garza Lake No 2 Dam, located in Zapata, Texas, was completed in 1970 and serves as a vital water supply for the region.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 24 feet and a length of 2100 feet, this earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 528 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 440 acre-feet. The dam is primarily owned by a private entity and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

Despite not having a spillway, the dam poses a high risk due to its hazard potential and the lack of a condition assessment rating. It is listed as being in "Not Rated" condition, indicating a need for further evaluation and potential maintenance. The dam also lacks emergency action plans and inundation maps, highlighting the need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Garza Lake No 2 Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management and regulation of water infrastructure in Texas. With its critical role in supplying water to the region, the dam's risk assessment and condition evaluation are essential factors to consider for long-term sustainability and disaster preparedness. As efforts continue to monitor and improve the dam's safety measures, its significance in water resource management and climate resilience remains a key focus for stakeholders and regulators alike.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

2100

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-SALMONENO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

55

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

528

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.