Ryan Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ryan Lake Dam, located in McMullen County, Texas, is a privately owned structure that serves as a crucial water supply source.
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Summary
Constructed in 1968, this Earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and stretches 1800 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TR-SAN MIGUEL CREEK and falls under the regulatory oversight of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
Despite its age, Ryan Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and its hazard potential is labeled as "Not Available." However, the risk assessment indicates a high risk level, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam currently does not have a spillway and features no locks, with only one outlet gate in place for water release. The surrounding area covers 32 acres, providing a glimpse into the reservoir's capacity and impact on the local ecosystem.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ryan Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in the management of water supply infrastructure. With its private ownership and state regulation, the dam underscores the need for continued monitoring and risk assessment to ensure the safety of nearby communities and the sustainability of water resources. As climate change impacts water availability, understanding the condition and operational capacity of structures like Ryan Lake Dam becomes increasingly vital for resilience and adaptation strategies.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1800 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SAN MIGUEL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
San Miguel Ck Nr Tilden
|
0cfs |
Frio Rv At Tilden
|
0cfs |
Atascosa Rv At Whitsett
|
0cfs |
Choke Canyon Res Owc Nr Three Rivers
|
34cfs |
Atascosa Rv Nr Mccoy
|
1cfs |
Nueces Rv Nr Tilden
|
0cfs |
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.
Ryan Lake Dam