Lemons Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: May 6, 2026

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Lemons Lake Dam in Castro, Texas, is a private earth dam completed in 1947 for the primary purpose of irrigation.


Summary

Standing at a height of 15 feet with a length of 540 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 321 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the North Fork Running Water Draw and is not regulated by the state but does require inspections and permitting.

Despite its age, Lemons Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition and poses a high risk, according to a hazard potential assessment. The dam lacks a spillway, and the last inspection was conducted in 1986. The dam's emergency action plan status is unknown, and there are no inundation maps or risk management measures in place. With a risk assessment rating of 2 (high), the dam may require further evaluation and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality for irrigation purposes.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lemons Lake Dam presents a historic yet potentially risky structure that highlights the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring of dams to prevent hazards and ensure water resource sustainability. The dam's association with irrigation underscores its crucial role in supporting agriculture in the region, making it essential to address any potential risks and implement necessary safety measures to protect both the dam and the surrounding environment.

15-Day Long Term Forecast


Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

NORTH FORK RUNNING WATER DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

321

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.