Talpa Dam

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Talpa Dam, located in Coleman, Texas, is a local government-owned structure designed by CCRA and completed in 1936. This earth dam, standing at a height of 23 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes along Grape Creek. With a storage capacity of 518 acre-feet and a normal storage of 232 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 40 acres and has a drainage area of 3.04 square miles.

Despite its historical significance, Talpa Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition as of December 2016. The dam's hazard potential is not available, but its risk assessment is moderate. The outlet gates consist of one slide gate and two uncontrolled gates, while the spillway is of the uncontrolled type with a width of 173 feet. The dam is under the regulatory authority of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Talpa Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of recreational use and dam safety in a picturesque setting. With its moderate risk assessment and poor condition, the dam presents a challenge for stakeholders to balance the preservation of its historical and recreational value with the need for maintenance and potential improvements to ensure public safety and environmental protection. Understanding the complexities of managing dams like Talpa Dam is crucial for sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.