Novice City Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Novice City Lake Dam, located in Coleman, Texas, was completed in 1947 and stands at a height of 36 feet, with a hydraulic height matching that measurement as well.


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Summary

Primarily designed for recreation, this earth dam, with a buttress core type, holds a normal storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1,184 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the South Fork Jim Ned Creek and is under the regulatory oversight of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

Despite its recreational purpose, Novice City Lake Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition as of December 2016, with a moderate risk rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates consisting of a slide (sluice gate) and two uncontrolled gates. The last inspection of the dam took place in November 2016, and it is unclear when the next inspection is scheduled. While the hazard potential of the dam is labeled as "Not Available," its risk management measures are not specified.

With its historical significance dating back to the mid-20th century, Novice City Lake Dam serves as a vital structure for both water resource management and recreational activities in the area. However, the dam's poor condition and moderate risk rating underscore the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of this essential water resource infrastructure.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

1130

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

SOUTH FORK JIM NED CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

36

Nid Storage

1184

Structural Height

36

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

36
       
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.