Megargel Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Megargel Lake Dam, located in Archer County, Texas, is a vital structure for water supply, completed in 1962.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Designed by Ernest L Andrews, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans 840 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 359 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Megargel Creek, serves as a crucial resource for the surrounding area, with a normal storage capacity of 223 acre-feet and a surface area of 16.4 acres.

Maintained by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Megargel Lake Dam is inspected every five years and assessed to be in fair condition. Despite having an uncontrolled spillway and an uncontrolled outlet gate, the dam poses a moderate risk level (3) according to the risk assessment. The hazard potential is not available, but the dam continues to play a significant role in water management for the region, demonstrating the importance of proper maintenance and oversight for water resource infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

As a local government-owned structure, Megargel Lake Dam is a testament to the collaboration between public and regulatory agencies in ensuring water security for communities. With its historical significance and ongoing operational importance, this dam stands as a symbol of resilience and innovation in water resource management, highlighting the need for sustainable practices and continual monitoring in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

840

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

MEGARGEL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.4

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

359

Structural Height

34

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.