Johnson Ranch Dam No 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Johnson Ranch Dam No 1, located in Donley, Texas, was completed in 1972 by the USDA NRCS and serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond management.
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Summary
This privately owned Earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 26 acre-feet. Situated on TR-McClellan Creek, the dam is designed as a buttress type structure and spans a length of 329 feet, contributing to the overall water resource management in the region.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Johnson Ranch Dam No 1 poses a high risk (2) due to its condition assessment being not rated and lack of available information on hazard potential. With no spillway and limited outlet gates, there are concerns related to potential emergency situations. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, which raises questions about its management in times of crisis. Despite these challenges, the dam remains an essential structure for the local community's water needs and ecosystem health.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Johnson Ranch Dam No 1 presents an intriguing case study for understanding the intersection of private ownership, dam safety, and emergency preparedness. With a risk assessment indicating a high level of concern, there is a pressing need for further evaluation and potential improvements to ensure the continued safety and functionality of this crucial water management infrastructure. The data provided offers valuable insights into the complexities of managing water resources in a changing climate, highlighting the importance of proactive measures to mitigate risks and protect both human and environmental interests.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
329 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MCCLELLAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
120 |
Nid Storage |
40 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
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