Charles Wheeler Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 26, 2025

Charles Wheeler Lake Dam, located in McMullen, Texas, is a privately owned structure designed by USDA NRCS with a primary purpose designated as "Other." Completed in 1978, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 1243 feet.


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Summary

It has a storage capacity of 480 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 360 acre-feet, serving the purposes of water resource management and climate regulation in the region.

The dam, situated on TR-Richardson Creek, is under the jurisdiction of the state of Texas and is not regulated by any state agency. With a high risk assessment rating of 2, the dam's hazard potential is currently classified as "Not Available," and its condition assessment has not been rated. Despite lacking a spillway, the dam boasts one outlet gate and is inspected periodically by the state. The risk management measures and emergency action plan for the dam are currently not available, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and assessment to ensure its safety and functionality for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates in the area.

Overall, Charles Wheeler Lake Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water storage and management in McMullen, Texas, contributing to the region's water security and climate resilience efforts. With its unique design and historical significance, the dam's role in regulating water flow and enhancing environmental sustainability underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring its condition to mitigate potential risks and ensure its continued effectiveness for generations to come. As a key component of the local water resource infrastructure, the dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand and address the challenges of sustainable water management in the region.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

1243

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-RICHARDSON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

1.54

Nid Storage

480

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

21
       
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.