Willow Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Willow Lake Dam, located in San Patricio, Texas, was completed in 1970 and stands at a height of 20 feet with a length of 620 feet.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam, designed by USDA NRCS, serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the TR-Nueces River. With a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet and a normal storage of 32 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. Despite not having a spillway, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

The dam's purpose extends beyond flood risk reduction, also serving for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes. It is owned privately and falls under state jurisdiction, with the TCEQ overseeing its permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes. The risk assessment for Willow Lake Dam indicates a high risk level, emphasizing the importance of proper management and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of this vital water resource infrastructure. Climate and water resource enthusiasts will find Willow Lake Dam to be a significant structure in the region, contributing to both water management and environmental protection efforts.

With its strategic location along the TR-Nueces River and its crucial role in flood risk reduction and water management, Willow Lake Dam stands as a key asset in the region's infrastructure. Managed by a private entity and regulated by the state, this Earth-type dam continues to play a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential hazards while also supporting various water-related activities. As climate and water resource enthusiasts explore the impact of dams on the environment, Willow Lake Dam serves as a prime example of how infrastructure can both mitigate risks and enhance the resilience of communities in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

620

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-NUECES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

65

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.