Palafox Mine Pond Sp-14 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Located in Webb County, Texas, the Palafox Mine Pond Sp-14 Dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship.
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Summary
Completed in 1993, this private-owned Earth dam spans 1700 feet in length and reaches a height of 16.1 feet, providing crucial water storage for the region. Situated on TR-Carracitos Creek, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 77 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 2093 cubic feet per second.
With an uncontrolled spillway and one outlet gate, the Palafox Mine Pond Sp-14 Dam serves multiple purposes beyond flood control, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable water resource management. Despite its relatively modest size, the dam plays a vital role in the local ecosystem, boasting a surface area of 12.5 acres and a drainage area of 0.44 square miles. While its hazard potential is listed as "Not Available," the dam's risk assessment is categorized as moderate, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts.
As climate change continues to impact water resources worldwide, structures like the Palafox Mine Pond Sp-14 Dam serve as crucial infrastructure for mitigating the effects of extreme weather events. Although its condition assessment remains unrated, the dam's presence underscores the proactive measures taken by private entities to address water security in the face of evolving environmental challenges. Supported by the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam exemplifies the intersection of public and private interests in safeguarding water supplies for future generations.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
1700 |
Dam Height |
16.1 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CARRACITOS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
16.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.44 |
Nid Storage |
137 |
Structural Height |
16.1 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Zacate Ck At Laredo
|
0cfs |
Rio Grande At Laredo
|
1760cfs |
Nueces Rv Nr Asherton
|
0cfs |
San Casimiro Ck Nr Freer
|
0cfs |
Nueces Rv At Cotulla
|
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.
Palafox Mine Pond Sp-14 Dam