Scotland Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Scotland Lake Dam, located in Archer County, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1963 for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 13 feet and a length of 400 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 364 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20 acres. It is situated on the TR-Wichita River and falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

Despite being categorized as having a high risk potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, and there is no available information on emergency action plans or hazard mitigation measures in place. The dam lacks a spillway and has no locks or discharge outlets, presenting unique challenges for managing water levels and potential flooding risks. With limited data on inspection frequency and maintenance history, the Scotland Lake Dam underscores the importance of regular monitoring and upkeep to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both water resource management and climate resilience.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Scotland Lake Dam serves as a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure development, environmental regulation, and risk management. Its location on the Wichita River, coupled with its primary purpose for fire protection and recreational use, highlights the delicate balance between harnessing water resources for human needs while also safeguarding against potential hazards. As interest grows in sustainable water management practices and climate adaptation strategies, the Scotland Lake Dam provides valuable insights into the complexities of maintaining and regulating critical water infrastructure in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR-WICHITA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

364

Structural Height

13

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.