Mcclain Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mcclain Lake Dam in Henderson, Texas, is a privately-owned structure regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 39 feet and a hydraulic height of 40.4 feet, serves a primary purpose that is classified as "Other." The dam, built on a soil foundation, has a normal storage capacity of 140 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 443 acre-feet.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 51 feet and is equipped with two uncontrolled outlet gates. Despite its satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in April 2021, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. With a drainage area of 0.49 square miles and a surface area of 13.95 acres, Mcclain Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2,332 cubic feet per second.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mcclain Lake Dam presents an interesting case study of a privately-owned structure with state regulation, showcasing the importance of proper dam management and maintenance to mitigate potential risks. The dam's design and operational features, along with its storage capacity and drainage area, highlight its significance in ensuring water security and flood control in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the role of dams like Mcclain Lake Dam becomes increasingly vital in sustainable water management practices.

Dam Length

880

Dam Height

39

River Or Stream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.95

Hydraulic Height

40.4

Drainage Area

0.49

Nid Storage

443

Structural Height

42.5

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

43
       
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.