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1. Why is the City working with state and federal agencies to remove Cape’s Dam?

Cape’s Dam was severely damaged in three major floods in 2013 and 2015 and is now a hazard to river users. After numerous public discussions, studies, and input from both the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the San Marcos City Council voted on March 15, 2016 to have the dam removed.

2. How long has the City been working on a plan to address the safety concerns at Cape’s Dam?

City boards and staff have been discussing options for the dam since 2014 when the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board requested a study be done on the environmental and recreational issues associated with the dam.

3. Where will the money to remove the dam come from?

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will remove the dam at no cost to the City.

4. What studies have been done to determine the effects of removing the dam?

A study was done to explore the effects of removing the dam on water level, river ecology, and future recreational use. Cape's Dam Study (PDF)

5. What about the historical significance of Cape’s Dam and the mill race?

The City of San Marcos values our rich history. The City has requested a consultation with the State Historical Preservation Officer from the Texas Historical Commission regarding removal of the dam.

6. Is removal of Cape’s Dam a component of the Edward Aquifer Habitat Conservation Plan?

No, this is a separate project. The Habitat Conservation Plan involves bank stabilization and riparian restoration upriver of Cape’s Dam. Removal of non-native littoral and aquatic vegetation and establishment of native vegetation is being undertaken in this reach of the river. Habitat Conservation Plan Website

7. What public discussions were held about the future of the dam?

There have been six Parks Board meetings regarding the dam - August 26, 2014; September 23, 2014; January 15, 2015; February 19, 2015; April16, 2015; July 16, 2015 and January 21, 2016.

In addition, the San Marcos City Council had a guided tour of the dam on August 31, 2015, a workshop on February 22, 2016; and voted March 15, 2016 to remove the dam.

8. Has the City allocated money to build a whitewater park similar to Rio Vista?

No.