Winkenwerder Lake Dam, located in Gonzales, Texas, was completed in 1962 and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
Wind
Humidity
This private earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet with a length of 1425 feet, offering storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Mitchell Creek, this dam is crucial for water resource management in the region, particularly for fire protection and agricultural needs.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Winkenwerder Lake Dam poses a high risk due to its condition assessment being rated as 'Not Rated'. The dam lacks a spillway and has only one outlet gate, which raises concerns about its ability to handle maximum discharge levels. With no recent inspection data available, the emergency action plan status and risk management measures for the dam remain unknown, leaving potential vulnerabilities in the event of a catastrophic event.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Winkenwerder Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of private ownership, dam safety, and environmental risk management. As efforts continue to assess and address the dam's condition and potential hazards, this structure serves as a focal point for discussions on the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring in safeguarding water resources and communities against the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
1425 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MITCHELL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
80 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
18 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Independence City Park
|
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Lake Wood Rec Area
|
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Group Camping
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Palmetto State Park
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