SWT begins Spring Lake Dam repairs

SAN MARCOS, TEXAS — Southwest Texas State University will begin repairs to the Spring Lake dam on May 7. The dam will undergo repairs to strengthen the western spillway chute slab and walls, and to fill a cavity that was enlarged during the October 1998 flood.

Lowman Services of Robstown was awarded the $250,000 contract for repairs; however, Freese and Nichols Engineering, has been hired as a contractor to oversee the repairs to ensure all necessary environmental precautions are taken. A 12-inch siphon will be used to divert the water while maintaining a flow from the springs to the San Marcos River.

SWT will report all repair activity to both U.S. Fish and Wildlife and the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission. Within the contract, specific details call for the minimization of disturbance to the area.

In addition to dam repairs, reconstruction of the dam will include debris removal. The project is expected to be complete within 120 days of commencement.