Palafox Mine Pond Sp-16 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Webb, Texas, the Palafox Mine Pond Sp-16 Dam stands as a testament to innovative engineering and a commitment to water resource management.


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Summary

Built in 1993, this earth dam reaches a height of 23.7 feet and spans a length of 950 feet, providing vital water storage for the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 69 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 3126 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the TR-RIOGRANDE river.

Operated by a private entity, the Palafox Mine Pond Sp-16 Dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Additionally, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and two uncontrolled outlet gates. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), the dam is considered to have a manageable hazard potential, further highlighting the importance of effective risk management measures in safeguarding the surrounding community from potential flooding events. Overall, the Palafox Mine Pond Sp-16 Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water storage and flood control in the region, showcasing the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

23.7

River Or Stream

TR-RIOGRANDE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15.3

Hydraulic Height

23.7

Drainage Area

3.86

Nid Storage

769

Structural Height

23.7

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.