James Donnell Lake No 1 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
James Donnell Lake No 1 Dam, located in McMullen, Texas, was completed in 1968 and serves as a crucial water supply structure for the region.
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Summary
Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Maguey Creek, the dam has a primary purpose of water supply and is not regulated by the state, although it undergoes regular inspections and permitting processes.
Despite its relatively small size, James Donnell Lake No 1 Dam poses a high hazard potential, with a risk assessment rating of 2 out of 3. While the dam lacks a spillway and associated locks, its condition remains unrated, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring. The dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are also not readily available, underscoring the importance of proactive risk mitigation strategies for this critical water resource infrastructure in Texas.
In the scenic landscape of McMullen County, water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of James Donnell Lake No 1 Dam in sustaining local water supply needs. As efforts to enhance dam safety continue, stakeholders and authorities must prioritize the implementation of emergency preparedness measures and risk management protocols to safeguard this essential infrastructure for the community's long-term water security and resilience in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MAGUEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
115 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
San Miguel Ck Nr Tilden
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0cfs |
Frio Rv At Tilden
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0cfs |
Nueces Rv Nr Tilden
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0cfs |
Frio Rv Nr Derby
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0cfs |
Atascosa Rv At Whitsett
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0cfs |
Nueces Rv At Cotulla
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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.
James Donnell Lake No 1 Dam