Umbarger Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: May 7, 2026

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Umbarger Dam, located in Canyon, Texas, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


Summary

Built in 1938 and modified in 1993 and 2009, this Earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and spans 947 feet in length. It has a maximum storage capacity of 78,920 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 970 acres, supporting Tierra Blanca Creek with a drainage area of 755 square miles.

Despite its historical significance, Umbarger Dam has been rated with a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment as of June 2017. With a moderate risk rating, the dam is under the regulatory oversight of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. The dam also features an uncontrolled spillway and slide gates for outlet control. Its location within Randall County, Texas, presents both challenges and opportunities in managing water resources and climate impacts in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Umbarger Dam to be a focal point in the conservation efforts of the Tierra Blanca Creek watershed. With its rich history, engineering significance, and environmental impact, the dam serves as a critical piece of infrastructure in supporting wildlife habitats and managing water resources in the area. As discussions around dam safety and risk management continue, Umbarger Dam stands as a reminder of the importance of balancing human needs with ecological preservation in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demands.

15-Day Long Term Forecast


Years Modified

1993 - Hydraulic, 2009 - Mechanical

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

947

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

TIERRA BLANCA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

970

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

755

Nid Storage

78920

Structural Height

43

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

43
       
Seasonal Comparison

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail

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.