Earl Waddell Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Earl Waddell Dam, located in Palo Pinto, Texas, is a private-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1976.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and most prominently, as a fish and wildlife pond. With a height of 27 feet and a length of 642 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 245 acre-feet and sits on Panama Creek, within the Fort Worth District of Texas.
This Earth-type dam, with a buttress core, plays a crucial role in enhancing the local ecosystem by providing a habitat for various fish and wildlife species. Despite not having a spillway, the dam's normal storage capacity of 139 acre-feet helps in managing water resources in the region. While the dam is not currently rated for its condition, its risk assessment indicates a high risk level, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and potential risk management measures.
Overall, Earl Waddell Dam stands as a significant asset in the area, supporting recreational activities and contributing to the conservation of fish and wildlife populations. With its strategic location and purpose, this dam serves as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
642 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
PANAMA CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
660 |
Nid Storage |
245 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Brazos Rv Nr Palo Pinto
|
55cfs |
Brazos Rv Nr Dennis
|
109cfs |
Brazos Rv Nr Graford
|
50cfs |
Leon Rv Nr De Leon
|
0cfs |
Paluxy Rv At Glen Rose
|
10cfs |
Sabana Rv Nr De Leon
|
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.
Earl Waddell Dam