Cullen Thompson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cullen Thompson Dam, located in Cameron County, Texas, was completed in 1948 for the primary purpose of irrigation.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 7 feet and a length of 4500 feet, serves as a vital water resource for agricultural activities in the region. Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite having a high risk assessment rating, the dam's hazard potential and condition assessment remain unavailable. It lacks a spillway and associated structures, but features a single outlet gate for water release. Although the dam does not have a designated emergency action plan (EAP) or inundation maps prepared, it remains a critical infrastructure for water management in the area. With a maximum storage capacity of 168 acre-feet, Cullen Thompson Dam plays a crucial role in sustaining the local water supply and supporting agricultural activities in the region.

Cullen Thompson Dam's significance lies in its role as a water management structure for irrigation purposes in Cameron County, Texas. With its earth dam construction and buttress core type, the dam provides essential water storage for agricultural operations. While facing some risk assessment challenges, the dam's operation and maintenance are crucial for ensuring water supply reliability and supporting the region's agricultural economy.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

4500

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

OFF CH-ARROYO COLORADO

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

7

Nid Storage

168

Structural Height

7

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
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Nearby Streamflow Levels

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.