Located in Abilene, Texas, the Zoo Lake No 2 Dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity since its completion in 1927 by the Missouri Pacific RR Co and an unknown designer.
Wind
Humidity
This private-owned earth dam serves multiple purposes, including recreation and flood control along TR-Rainy Creek. With a height of 12 feet and a length of 850 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet, supporting a surface area of 10 acres and draining an area of 1.3 square miles.
Despite its age, the dam remains regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to ensure its structural integrity and safety. However, recent assessments have deemed its condition unsatisfactory, warranting a moderate risk rating. The dam also lacks controlled spillways and locks, relying on an uncontrolled spillway and a single uncontrolled outlet gate. In the event of an emergency, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) preparedness and risk management measures are not readily available, highlighting areas for improvement in ensuring public safety and water resource management.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find the Zoo Lake No 2 Dam a fascinating subject for study, given its historical significance, design features, and current regulatory oversight. As efforts continue to assess and mitigate risks associated with the dam, stakeholders are reminded of the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure for water supply, recreation, and environmental protection in the face of changing climate conditions.
Years Modified |
1955 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1927 |
Dam Length |
850 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-RAINY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
1.3 |
Nid Storage |
129 |
Structural Height |
12 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
12 |