Laguna Atascosa Crossing #2 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Laguna Atascosa Crossing #2 Dam, located in Cameron, Texas, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Summary
Built in 1953, this Earth-type dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond along the Cayo Atascoso stream. With a height of 7 feet and a length of 1260 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 19,248 acre-feet and a drainage area of 108.2 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is in poor condition as of the last inspection in August 2016. The structure has undergone modifications over the years, with the most recent structural update in 2011. The dam features a Vertical Lift outlet gate and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). While the dam meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements, its emergency action plan and risk assessment measures need further development.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Laguna Atascosa Crossing #2 Dam offers a unique opportunity to study the intersection of wildlife conservation and water management. As a key component of the Fish and Wildlife Service's operations, the dam provides essential habitat for local fauna while also serving practical water storage purposes. The dam's historical significance, along with its current condition and regulatory oversight, present a compelling case study for the sustainable management of water resources in the region.
Years Modified |
1962 - Structural, 1971 - Other, 1976 - Other, 2011 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
1260 |
Dam Height |
7 |
River Or Stream |
Cayo Atascoso |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1594 |
Hydraulic Height |
7 |
Drainage Area |
108.2 |
Nid Storage |
19248 |
Structural Height |
7 |
Outlet Gates |
Vertical Lift |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
7 |
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.
Laguna Atascosa Crossing #2 Dam