Arnold Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Arnold Lake Dam, located in La Salle, Texas, was completed in 1955 and serves as a crucial structure for water resource management in the region.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 12 feet and a length of 1185 feet, primarily functions for purposes other than flood control or hydroelectric power generation. It is classified as an Earth dam with a Buttress core type, and its reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 55 acre-feet.

Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Arnold Lake Dam poses a high risk due to its unspecified hazard potential and lack of condition assessment. The dam lacks a spillway and associated locks, which raises concerns about its ability to manage high flow conditions and prevent potential downstream flooding. The absence of crucial inspection and emergency action plan data further highlights the need for improved risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Arnold Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance of aging infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water systems, the significance of proactive risk assessment and management for dams like Arnold Lake becomes increasingly crucial. The unique design and history of this dam offer valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities in sustaining water resources in a changing climate landscape.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

1185

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-NUECES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

110

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.