Morton Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Morton Lake Dam, located in McMullen County, Texas, is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of providing fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond.
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Summary
Constructed in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a length of 1613 feet, with a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Muerto Creek and serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area.
Despite being privately owned, Morton Lake Dam is regulated by the state of Texas with permitting and inspection requirements in place. While the dam has no spillway, it is equipped with one outlet gate. With a high hazard potential rating and a risk assessment of 2, there is a need for effective risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of the structure. The dam's condition is currently not rated, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Morton Lake Dam presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. With its diverse purposes including recreation and water storage, this dam plays a crucial role in the local landscape. As efforts continue to manage and maintain this structure, it serves as a reminder of the balance needed to sustainably utilize and protect our water resources in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
1613 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
MUERTO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
48 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
70 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Frio Rv At Tilden
|
1cfs |
Nueces Rv Nr Tilden
|
0cfs |
San Miguel Ck Nr Tilden
|
0cfs |
Nueces Rv At Cotulla
|
0cfs |
Frio Rv Nr Derby
|
0cfs |
Choke Canyon Res Owc 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.
Morton Lake Dam