Volpe Tank Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Volpe Tank Dam, located in Zapata, Texas, was completed in 1974 and serves as a vital water resource for the region.
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Summary
This private earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 160 acre-feet. The dam is primarily used for purposes other than flood control or hydropower generation, and does not have a spillway or locks.
While the dam is not regulated by the state and its hazard potential is not available, it has been assessed as having a high risk level. Despite being in a condition that is not rated, the dam remains an important infrastructure for managing water resources in the area. With no recent inspection data available, the future maintenance and monitoring of this dam will be crucial for ensuring its continued safety and functionality for the surrounding community.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
1700 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TR-VILLA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
400 |
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 Ft Ringgold
|
2110cfs |
Rio Grande At Laredo
|
1760cfs |
Zacate Ck At Laredo
|
0cfs |
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.
Volpe Tank Dam