Mcdonough Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcdonough Lake Dam, located in Callahan County, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1960 for water supply purposes on Turkey Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 12 feet with a length of 850 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet. Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam is regularly inspected and permitted for operation. With a risk assessment rating of "High (2)", the dam is classified as having a moderate level of risk.

The dam, with a hazard potential that is not available and a condition assessment that is not rated, serves as an important water resource for the region. With no spillway and a single outlet gate, the dam plays a crucial role in water supply management for the surrounding area. Although the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is essential to ensure that proper risk management measures are in place to address any potential safety concerns.

With its structural design and purpose primarily focused on water supply, Mcdonough Lake Dam stands as a vital infrastructure in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of maintaining and monitoring such dams to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water supply systems. The dam's location on Turkey Creek highlights its importance in managing and regulating water flow in the area, making it a key component in the local ecosystem.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TURKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

77

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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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.