Color Spot Nurseries Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Color Spot Nurseries Dam is a private dam located in Von Ormy, Texas, along an unnamed tributary of Elm Creek.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 2011, stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 1650 feet. It serves a primary purpose of "Other" and has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 30 acre-feet.

Despite its relatively small size, Color Spot Nurseries Dam has been classified as having a poor condition assessment, with the last inspection in March 2018 noting the need for improvements. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and one outlet gate. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, there are concerns about its safety and potential hazards. The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement.

In the world of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Color Spot Nurseries Dam presents an intriguing case study on the maintenance and management of private dams. Its location, design, and condition raise important questions about the oversight and safety of such structures. As stakeholders continue to monitor and address the dam's risks, it serves as a reminder of the complex challenges faced in ensuring the resilience of our water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Year Completed

2011

Dam Length

1650

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY OF ELM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

7.5

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

15
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.