North Zulch Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The North Zulch Reservoir Dam in Madison, Texas, stands as a vital infrastructure for water supply in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1964, this earth dam with a height of 18 feet and a length of 1980 feet serves the purpose of storing water from the TR-Shepherd Creek. With a storage capacity of 230 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in providing a reliable water source for the surrounding area, with a normal storage level of 167 acre-feet.
Despite its age, the North Zulch Reservoir Dam has a high risk assessment due to its unknown condition assessment and hazard potential. The dam lacks a spillway and is not regulated by the state, which raises concerns about its safety and potential impact in case of a failure. The last inspection in 1992 highlighted the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the dam's structural integrity and lower the risk of potential disasters.
As a water resource and climate enthusiast, the North Zulch Reservoir Dam presents an intriguing case study of the challenges faced by aging infrastructure in meeting the growing demands for water supply. Its location in a high-risk area underscores the importance of proactive risk management and regular inspections to safeguard communities and the environment from the potential consequences of dam failure. With its historical significance and critical role in water supply, the North Zulch Reservoir Dam serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for investment in sustainable water infrastructure to address the impacts of climate change and ensure water security for future generations.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
1980 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SHEPHERD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
230 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
North Zulch Reservoir Dam