Arnold Crossing Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located on the Nueces River in Uvalde, Texas, the Arnold Crossing Dam stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of Freese and Nichols and Endress, who designed the structure in 1963.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This buttress-style dam serves a primary purpose of recreation, offering a surface area of 31.5 acres and a storage capacity of 281 acre-feet. With a hydraulic height of 14 feet and a length of 522 feet, the dam provides a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.

The Arnold Crossing Dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and has undergone state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes. While the hazard potential and condition assessment of the dam are not currently rated, its moderate risk level is monitored through regular risk management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates for controlled water release, ensuring the safety and stability of the structure.

For those interested in the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience, the Arnold Crossing Dam offers a fascinating case study. With its picturesque location on the Nueces River and its recreational amenities, this dam serves both practical and leisurely purposes while remaining under the careful oversight of state regulatory agencies. Explore the history and significance of this engineering marvel in the heart of Texas.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

522

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

NUECES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

31.5

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

281

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.