Engelman Irrigation Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Penitas Lake Dam District Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
The Engelman Irrigation Dam in Hidalgo, Texas, is a vital structure for water resource management in the region.
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Summary
Constructed in 1996 by NRS Engineering, this earth dam stands at a height of 11 feet and has a length of 6882 feet, providing irrigation water storage of up to 751 acre-feet. The dam is designed to primarily support agricultural irrigation needs in the area, with a normal storage capacity of 650 acre-feet and a surface area of 51 acres.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Engelman Irrigation Dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water availability for agricultural activities along the Rio Grande. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently rated as "Not Available" in terms of condition assessment, highlighting the need for ongoing risk management measures and regular inspections. The dam also lacks a spillway and locks, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness to mitigate potential risks associated with the structure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Engelman Irrigation Dam serves as a key example of the intricate balance between water management and environmental conservation in the region.
Year Completed |
1996 |
Dam Length |
6882 |
Dam Height |
11 |
River Or Stream |
OFF CH-RIO GRANDE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
51 |
Drainage Area |
0.08 |
Nid Storage |
751 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
11 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Engelman Irrigation Dam