Mingus Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mingus Lake Dam is a privately owned structure located in Palo Pinto, Texas, designed by Baird, Hampton & Brown.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam serves multiple purposes such as irrigation, fire protection, stock, and small fish pond. It stands at a height of 30 feet with a hydraulic height of 22 feet, and a length of 860 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 2244 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 105 acres, drawing water from Gibson Creek.

The dam, built with an earth core and stone foundation, features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 220 feet. The structure has undergone modifications in 2017 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. The dam's condition is assessed as fair, with a moderate risk level. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulates and inspects the dam regularly to ensure compliance with safety standards. With its significant role in irrigation and water management, Mingus Lake Dam remains a vital resource in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Mingus Lake Dam intriguing for its unique design, multiple purposes, and the regulatory framework in place to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's location in a picturesque setting along Gibson Creek adds to its appeal, making it a focal point for those interested in water infrastructure and environmental conservation. As a key component of the water management system in Palo Pinto, Texas, Mingus Lake Dam showcases the intersection of human engineering with natural resources, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in water resource management.

Years Modified

2017 - Hydraulic

Dam Length

860

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

GIBSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

105

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

9.28

Nid Storage

2244

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.