Joe Martin Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Joe Martin Lake Dam, located in La Salle, Texas, is a privately owned structure that serves as a crucial water supply resource for the area.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1941, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 1240 feet, with a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet. 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 being classified as having a high risk potential, the dam is currently in a not rated condition assessment status. It does not have a spillway system in place, and is equipped with one outlet gate. The primary purpose of Joe Martin Lake Dam is water supply, and it is situated on the TR-Nueces River under the jurisdiction of the Galveston District. With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, this dam continues to play a vital role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

1240

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR-NUECES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

500

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
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.