Darnell Dam No 2 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Darnell Dam No 4 Darnell Dam No 3
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Darnell Dam No 2, located in Van Zandt, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam constructed in 1952 for recreational purposes along the TR-Grand Saline Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 18 feet with a length of 1400 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet for water-based recreational activities. Despite being designated as not regulated by the state and having a high hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment and lacks emergency action plans and risk management measures.
With a spillway type listed as "None" and only one outlet gate, Darnell Dam No 2 presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's structural design, including buttress core types and unlisted foundations, raises questions about its long-term safety and resilience to extreme weather events. Furthermore, the outdated last inspection date of April 1974 highlights the need for updated assessments and potential modifications to ensure the dam's continued functionality and safety for both recreational users and downstream communities.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the risk assessment of Darnell Dam No 2 as high further underscores the importance of proactive management and maintenance strategies. The lack of regulatory oversight and state enforcement, combined with the dam's aging infrastructure and potential hazards, emphasize the need for increased attention and investment in monitoring and mitigating risks associated with dams in vulnerable regions like Texas. Ultimately, Darnell Dam No 2 serves as a reminder of the complex intersection between water resources, climate change, and infrastructure management in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our built environment.
Year Completed |
1952 |
Dam Length |
1400 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GRAND SALINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sabine Rv Nr Mineola
|
64cfs |
Lake Fork Ck Nr Quitman
|
17cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Wills Point
|
7cfs |
Cedar Ck Nr Kemp
|
12cfs |
Sabine Rv Nr Hawkins
|
208cfs |
Big Sandy Ck Nr Big Sandy
|
91cfs |
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.
Darnell Dam No 2