Cain Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 12, 2025

Cain Lake Dam, located in Zavala, Texas, was completed in 1960 for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

The dam stands at 14 feet tall and spans 700 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Nueces River, the dam is classified as an Earth-type structure with a Buttress core design. Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, the dam does undergo regular inspections and permitting processes.

Although Cain Lake Dam does not have a spillway or lock system, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. With a high hazard potential rating of 2, the dam is considered to be at risk for potential failure, highlighting the importance of proper risk management measures. The condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated, indicating a need for further evaluation and potential maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and long-term stability.

As a key infrastructure for water supply, Cain Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community. Its location on the TR-Nueces River and its storage capacity contribute to water management efforts in the area. With a focus on risk assessment and management, ensuring the safety and functionality of the dam is essential for maintaining water security and mitigating potential hazards.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

TR-NUECES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

77

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

14
       
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.