Aquarena Dam
Key Takeaway
Aquarena Dam is classified as significant hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1849 and is 177 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 7 ft (taller than 0.1% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 350 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 160 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 132 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22 acres |
| Drainage Area | 49 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1849 (177 years old) |
| NID ID | TX01588 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY
State Government
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High Hazard 51 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Aquarena Dam?
Aquarena Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Aquarena Dam?
Aquarena Dam is owned by TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Aquarena Dam built?
Aquarena Dam was completed in 1849, making it 177 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Aquarena Dam?
Aquarena Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Aquarena Dam?
Aquarena Dam has a dam height of 7 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Aquarena Dam last inspected?
Aquarena Dam was last inspected on June 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.