Martindale Gin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Martindale Gin Dam, located on the San Marcos River in Texas, is a historic rockfill dam that was completed in 1892 for the primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 10 feet and stretching 304 feet in length, this dam plays a crucial role in harnessing the water resources of the region. Despite its age, the dam has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and is still in operation for hydroelectric purposes.

Managed by a private entity, Martindale Gin Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, but it has been identified as having a high risk potential. Currently, there is no available information on its hazard potential, emergency action plan, or risk management measures. The dam has not been inspected since 1985, which raises concerns about its structural integrity and safety standards. With no spillway and limited information on its drainage area and maximum discharge capacity, there are uncertainties surrounding the dam's ability to withstand extreme weather events and changing climate conditions.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Martindale Gin Dam presents a unique case study of a historic structure that continues to serve a vital role in water management and energy production. As efforts to assess and mitigate risks associated with aging infrastructure become increasingly important, the future of this dam raises questions about the need for regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water resources in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1892

Dam Length

304

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

SAN MARCOS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

10

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.