Cain Dam 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cain Dam 1 Moranco Blanco Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cain Dam 2, located in Cameron County, Texas, stands as a vital irrigation structure along the Resaca de los Cuates river.
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Summary
Built in 1949, this earth dam measures 8 feet in height and spans 495 feet in length, offering a storage capacity of 336 acre-feet for agricultural purposes. Although the dam lacks a spillway, it is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections, ensuring its operational efficiency and safety standards.
Despite its age, Cain Dam 2 remains in good condition and poses no immediate hazard to the surrounding area. With a risk assessment rating of 2 (high), the dam is closely monitored to mitigate any potential risks that may arise. While the dam lacks an emergency action plan (EAP) and inundation maps, it meets regulatory guidelines and is maintained to meet operational standards. As a privately owned structure, Cain Dam 2 serves as a critical asset for irrigation in the region, supporting agricultural activities and water resource management in Cameron County.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of structures like Cain Dam 2 in maintaining water supply and managing environmental impacts in Texas. With its regulatory oversight and continuous monitoring, this dam stands as a testament to responsible water management practices and serves as a vital resource for the local community. Through ongoing assessments and risk management measures, Cain Dam 2 exemplifies the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
495 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
RESACA DE LOS CUATES |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
8 |
Nid Storage |
336 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Cain Dam 2
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