P H Tischhauser Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

P H Tischhauser Lake Dam, located in Nacogdoches, Texas, was completed in 1956 for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 33 feet and stretching 495 feet in length, holds a maximum storage capacity of 190 acre-feet with a normal storage of 151 acre-feet. The dam, constructed on soil foundations with a stone core, overlooks the off channel of Ysleta Creek and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

Despite its age, the dam has been subject to modifications in 2002 for structural improvements. However, recent assessments have shown a poor condition, with a risk assessment rating it as moderate (3). The dam is inspected every 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in May 2018. Although there is no available hazard potential information, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are currently not fully documented.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the P H Tischhauser Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned structure in Texas that plays a crucial role in water supply. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance challenges, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of infrastructure resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. The need for regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency preparedness measures underscores the complex interplay between water management, safety, and sustainability in our modern world.

Years Modified

2002 - Structural

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

495

Dam Height

33

River Or Stream

OFF CH-YSLETA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

33

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

190

Structural Height

33

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

33
       
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.