Mcniel Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcniel Dam, located in Hill, Texas, is a privately owned structure built in 1979 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

This Earth type dam stands at 21 feet high and spans a length of 522 feet, with a primary purpose of serving as a fire protection, stock, or small fish pond, as well as for recreational activities. The dam's reservoir has a storage capacity of 118 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite being a non-federally regulated dam, Mcniel Dam plays a crucial role in water management within the region. With a drainage area of 340 square miles, the dam helps to control water flow along TR-ASH CREEK, minimizing the risk of flooding and ensuring a stable water supply for various purposes. The dam's high hazard potential and the absence of a spillway require careful monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment.

As a key feature in the local water infrastructure, Mcniel Dam represents a vital resource for water conservation and management in the area. Its construction and ongoing operation by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlight the importance of sustainable water resource management in Texas. With its multiple purposes and strategic location, Mcniel Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

522

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-ASH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

340

Nid Storage

118

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.