Cain Dam 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cain Dam 2 Moranco Blanco Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cain Dam 1, located in Cameron County, Texas, was completed in 1949 with a primary purpose of irrigation.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 10 feet, has a storage capacity of 430 acre-feet and serves the Resaca de los Cuates. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement.
With a hazard potential that is currently labeled as "Not Available," Cain Dam 1 poses a high risk (2) according to the data. Although the condition assessment is not rated, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan (EAP) status are not provided in the dataset. The last recorded inspection was conducted in 1985, indicating a potential need for updated assessments and risk mitigation strategies to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cain Dam 1 presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of human infrastructure and environmental stewardship. As a vital component of the irrigation system in the region, the dam's management and maintenance practices are crucial for sustainable water use. The collaboration between private ownership, state regulation, and potential federal involvement underscores the complex dynamics of water resource management in Texas and the broader context of dam safety and resilience in the face of climate change.
Year Completed |
1949 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
RESACA DE LOS CUATES |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Nid Storage |
430 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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 1