Mcdonald Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcdonald Lake Dam, located in Anderson, Texas, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1949, the dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 550 feet, with a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet. While the dam does not have a spillway, it is equipped with one outlet gate.

Despite being privately owned, the dam is subject to state permitting and inspection requirements. It is not regulated by the state, but regular inspections ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential rating, the dam is considered to pose a moderate risk, prompting the need for risk management measures to be implemented.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Mcdonald Lake Dam's design and history intriguing, as well as the recreation opportunities it provides in the area. Its location on the TR-Mound Prairie Creek adds to its appeal, making it a point of interest for those interested in dams and water management in Texas.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-MOUND PRAIRIE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

135

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.