Walker Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Walker Lake Dam, located in Zapata, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1977.
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Summary
The dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans a length of 1600 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet. Although primarily used for purposes other than flood control or water supply, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Despite lacking a spillway, Walker Lake Dam is equipped with one outlet gate. The dam's condition is currently not rated, and its hazard potential is deemed not available. However, it is classified as having a high risk level, indicating the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam is within the jurisdiction of the Galveston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers and is not regulated by the state, highlighting the significance of federal oversight in managing water infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Walker Lake Dam serves as a fascinating case study in the design and management of small-scale earth dams. Its location on Taguach Creek and its association with the Galveston District underscore the interconnectedness of water systems and the need for sustainable water management practices. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the role of dams like Walker Lake in mitigating risks and supporting communities becomes ever more crucial.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TAGUACH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
135 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rio Grande At Laredo
|
1760cfs |
Zacate Ck At Laredo
|
0cfs |
San Casimiro Ck Nr Freer
|
0cfs |
Los Olmos Ck Nr Falfurrias
|
0cfs |
Rio Grande At Ft Ringgold
|
2110cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Walker Lake Dam