Mathisen Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Mathisen Lake Dam, located in Blumenthal, Texas, is a private Earth dam with a primary purpose of water supply.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1970, this dam stands at a height of 31 feet and has a length of 1100 feet, providing a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Palo Alto Creek, this dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite being privately owned, Mathisen Lake Dam is regulated by the state with permitting and inspection requirements in place. The dam has a high risk assessment rating of 2, indicating the need for vigilant risk management measures. With no spillway in place, the dam's outlet gates are limited to one, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and efficiency of the structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mathisen Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study in private dam ownership and management. As a key water supply infrastructure in Gillespie County, Texas, this dam underscores the significance of sustainable water resource management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. With its high risk assessment and limited hazard potential data, the ongoing monitoring and maintenance of Mathisen Lake Dam are crucial for the community's water security and resilience in the long term.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

31

River Or Stream

TR-PALO ALTO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

31

Nid Storage

115

Structural Height

31

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

31
       
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.