New Wortham Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

New Wortham Lake Dam, located in Navarro, Texas, was completed in 1963 and serves as a crucial water supply infrastructure for the area.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Cedar Creek river, plays a vital role in providing water for the region, especially during times of drought or increased demand.

Despite its importance for water supply, New Wortham Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment and carries a high-risk potential. With no spillway and limited structural information, there are concerns about the dam's ability to withstand potential hazards. While state inspections and permitting are in place, the lack of enforcement and regulatory oversight raises questions about the long-term safety and maintenance of this critical infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is essential to address the risks associated with dams like New Wortham Lake to ensure the resilience of water supply systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to advocate for increased monitoring, maintenance, and risk management measures for dams like New Wortham Lake Dam. With its significant role in providing water supply for the region, the safety and integrity of this infrastructure are crucial for the community's well-being and environmental sustainability. By raising awareness about the potential risks and advocating for proactive measures, we can work towards ensuring the resilience and longevity of vital water supply systems in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

CEDAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

74

Structural Height

10

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.