Lake Scarborough Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Scarborough Dam, located in Coleman, Texas, is a vital structure managed by the local government for recreational and water supply purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1924, this earth dam spans 1180 feet in length and stands at a height of 42 feet, offering a storage capacity of 2600 acre-feet. Situated on Indian Creek, the dam's spillway width of 165 feet allows for a maximum discharge of 13975 cubic feet per second.

Despite its historical significance and importance for the community, recent assessments have deemed the dam's condition as unsatisfactory, prompting a closer inspection and evaluation of potential risks. With a moderate hazard potential and a risk assessment rating of 3, there are concerns about the dam's structural integrity and the need for comprehensive risk management measures. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) plays a crucial role in overseeing the regulatory aspects of the dam, ensuring compliance with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements to safeguard public safety and the environment. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Scarborough Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving challenges.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

1180

Dam Height

42

River Or Stream

INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

123

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

10.8

Nid Storage

2600

Structural Height

42

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

42
       
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.