Lake Kirby Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Kirby Dam, located in Abilene, Texas, is a vital water resource structure built in 1928 for irrigation purposes along Cedar Creek.


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Summary

Designed by Nigel Witt Rollins, this earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and spans 4200 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 15,922 acre-feet and a surface area of 780 acres. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency.

With a fair condition assessment and a moderate hazard potential rating, Lake Kirby Dam plays a crucial role in managing water supply and irrigation needs in the region. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates for efficient water release, with a maximum discharge capacity of 47,661 cubic feet per second. The surrounding drainage area covers 47.2 square miles, highlighting the dam's significance in water management and flood control efforts. Despite being non-Federal and locally owned, Lake Kirby Dam remains a key component of the water infrastructure in Taylor County, Texas, supporting agricultural activities and water supply for the community.

Overall, Lake Kirby Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and infrastructure development in Texas. With its strategic location and design features, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose of irrigation while also contributing to water supply needs in the region. As a regulated and inspected structure, Lake Kirby Dam ensures the safety and sustainability of water resources along Cedar Creek, making it a vital asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1928

Dam Length

4200

Dam Height

50

River Or Stream

CEDAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

780

Hydraulic Height

50

Drainage Area

47.2

Nid Storage

15922

Structural Height

50

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 2, Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

50
       
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.