Simon Freese Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Nestled along the Colorado River in Texas, the Simon Freese Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence and environmental stewardship.


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Summary

Designed by FREESE AND NICHOLS, this concrete structure was completed in 1989 with a primary purpose of recreation while also serving as a vital water supply source for the region. With a height of 149 feet and a length of 9950 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of over 1.2 million acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the surrounding communities.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Simon Freese Dam has been inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a satisfactory condition assessment as of April 2021, the dam continues to meet the necessary guidelines for emergency preparedness and risk management. Featuring a spillway width of 8300 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1,947,001 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle potential flood events while maintaining its recreational and water supply functions.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Simon Freese Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human innovation and natural resource management. With its strategic location along the Colorado River and its significant impact on the surrounding ecosystem, this concrete marvel serves as a vital lifeline for both recreational enjoyment and water security in Coleman, Texas. As a symbol of responsible water stewardship, the Simon Freese Dam stands as a beacon of sustainability in a rapidly changing climate landscape.

Years Modified

1990 - Structural

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

9950

Dam Height

149

River Or Stream

COLORADO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

19149

Hydraulic Height

142

Drainage Area

11500

Nid Storage

1235813

Structural Height

148

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1, Tainter (radial) - 6, Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

149
       
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.