Juan G Benavides Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Juan G Benavides Lake Dam, located in Zapata, Texas, was completed in 1969 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
The dam is classified as an Earth dam with a height of 14 feet and a length of 1125 feet. It serves as a vital water resource for the area, with a storage capacity of 207 acre-feet and a surface area of 27 acres. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not rated, and it poses a high risk due to its hazard potential.
Owned privately, the dam is not regulated by the state and has no enforcement agency overseeing its operations. The surrounding area, including the TR-ARROYO MIGUEL stream, benefits from the recreational opportunities provided by the dam. Although lacking a spillway, the dam features one outlet gate for water release. The risk assessment for Juan G Benavides Lake Dam indicates a high level of risk, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Juan G Benavides Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure in Texas. Its historical significance, recreational value, and risk assessment make it a subject of interest for those interested in water management and environmental conservation. As discussions around climate change and water scarcity continue to evolve, the maintenance and management of dams like Juan G Benavides Lake Dam become increasingly important in ensuring the sustainability of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
1125 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ARROYO MIGUEL |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
27 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
207 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rio Grande At Ft Ringgold
|
2110cfs |
Rio Grande At Laredo
|
1760cfs |
Zacate Ck At Laredo
|
1cfs |
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.
Juan G Benavides Lake Dam