Retama Reservoir Levee Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Retama Reservoir Levee, located in Hidalgo, Texas, is a crucial structure owned by the local government for irrigation purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1935, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 9 feet and stretches 12,000 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 13,500 acre-feet. Despite its significant role in providing water for agricultural needs, the dam is currently assessed to be in poor condition, posing a high risk in terms of its safety and effectiveness.
The levee, regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, has faced challenges with its maintenance and upkeep, as indicated by a recent inspection in 2016. With a drainage area of 7 square miles and a surface area of 630 acres, the reservoir holds a normal storage capacity of 8,864 acre-feet. The absence of a spillway and limited discharge capabilities highlight the need for immediate attention to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the sustainability of water resources in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to monitor and advocate for the necessary repairs and improvements to Retama Reservoir Levee. With a poor condition assessment and high risk rating, the structure's integrity and functionality are at stake, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to safeguard the local environment and water supply. The collaboration of stakeholders and regulatory agencies is crucial in addressing the challenges faced by this vital irrigation infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
12000 |
Dam Height |
9 |
River Or Stream |
OFF CH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
630 |
Hydraulic Height |
9 |
Drainage Area |
7 |
Nid Storage |
13500 |
Structural Height |
9 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 2, Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
9 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rio Grande At Ft Ringgold
|
2110cfs |
Rio Grande Nr Brownsville
|
22cfs |
Los Olmos Ck Nr Falfurrias
|
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.
Retama Reservoir Levee