Metzger Dam No 3 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Metzger Dam No 1 Metzger Dam No 2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Metzger Dam No 3, located in Van Zandt County, Texas, was completed in 1959 and serves as a crucial water supply infrastructure for the region.
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Summary
This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet with a length of 230 feet, providing a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. The dam is primarily designed to support water supply purposes, with its construction overseen by the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Despite its age, Metzger Dam No 3 has not been rated for its current condition, and there is limited data available on its hazard potential. The dam is equipped with three uncontrolled outlet gates, and there is no spillway present. The risk assessment for the dam indicates a high risk level, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and reliability of the structure. Although the dam is not under state jurisdiction or regulation, it is subject to state permitting and inspection requirements.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Metzger Dam No 3 offers a fascinating case study in the challenges of managing aging infrastructure for water supply. With its historical significance and critical role in supporting the local community, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive risk management and investment in maintaining the resilience of our water systems in the face of climate change and extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
230 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LITTLE SALINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Nid Storage |
350 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sabine Rv Nr Mineola
|
70cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Wills Point
|
7cfs |
Lake Fork Ck Nr Quitman
|
17cfs |
Cedar Ck Nr Kemp
|
15cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Hawkins
|
243cfs |
Kings Ck At Sh 34 Nr Kaufman
|
15cfs |
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.
Metzger Dam No 3