Ralph Edwards Freshwater Pond Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ralph Edwards Freshwater Pond is a privately owned structure located in McMullen County, Texas, with a primary purpose listed as "Other." The dam type is classified as Earth, with a stone core and a structural height of 18 feet.


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Summary

The pond has a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 22 acre-feet. Despite its small surface area of 5 acres and a lack of a spillway, the dam poses a high risk potential, with a hazard potential of "Not Available."

This off-channel freshwater pond, managed by the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, poses potential risks due to its lack of condition assessment and emergency action plan. The absence of inspection dates and frequency raises concerns about the structural integrity of the dam and its ability to withstand high discharges. The pond's association with emergency contacts, inundation maps, and risk management measures remains unclear, highlighting the need for further assessment and planning to mitigate potential hazards.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Ralph Edwards Freshwater Pond should focus on its risk potential and the need for improved safety measures. With a high risk assessment and limited information on its safety protocols, this privately owned structure in Texas serves as a reminder of the importance of proper dam management and emergency preparedness in ensuring the protection of water resources and surrounding communities.

Dam Length

1890

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

OFF-CHANNEL

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Nid Storage

75

Structural Height

18

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

18
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.