Wheeler Lake No 1 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Wheeler Lake No 1 Dam, located in McMullen County, Texas, is a private-owned structure built in 1959 with a primary purpose that is categorized as "Other." This earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and stretches over 800 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 135 acre-feet.
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Summary
The dam is situated on TR-Leoncita Creek, under the jurisdiction of the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Despite being unregulated by the state, Wheeler Lake No 1 Dam has undergone structural modifications in 1968 and is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 170 feet. The dam, with a hazard potential that is not available, poses a moderate risk to the surrounding area. While the condition assessment is not rated and the emergency action plan status is unspecified, the dam's last inspection was conducted in March 2009. The presence of two uncontrolled outlet gates adds to the operational characteristics of this vital water resource infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wheeler Lake No 1 Dam presents a captivating study in dam engineering and management. As a significant earth structure on TR-Leoncita Creek, the dam's history, unique design features, and regulatory aspects offer valuable insights into the challenges and considerations involved in maintaining and operating essential water infrastructure. The dam's location in the heart of Texas underscores its importance in water resource management and underscores the need for continued monitoring and assessment to ensure its safety and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Years Modified |
1968 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LEONCITA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
135 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Frio Rv At Tilden
|
0cfs |
San Miguel Ck Nr Tilden
|
0cfs |
Nueces Rv Nr Tilden
|
0cfs |
Atascosa Rv At Whitsett
|
0cfs |
Choke Canyon Res Owc Nr Three Rivers
|
31cfs |
Nueces Rv Nr Three Rivers
|
31cfs |
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.
Wheeler Lake No 1 Dam