Ben Ficklin Dam
Key Takeaway
Ben Ficklin Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1918 and is 108 years old. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 24 ft (taller than 47.7% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 288 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 515 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 316 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 36 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1918 (108 years old) |
| NID ID | TX04415 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
CITY OF SAN ANGELO
Local Government
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Low Hazard 9 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ben Ficklin Dam?
Ben Ficklin Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Ben Ficklin Dam?
Ben Ficklin Dam is owned by CITY OF SAN ANGELO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ben Ficklin Dam built?
Ben Ficklin Dam was completed in 1918, making it 108 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 Ben Ficklin Dam?
Ben Ficklin Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Ben Ficklin Dam?
Ben Ficklin Dam has a dam height of 24 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 Ben Ficklin Dam last inspected?
Ben Ficklin Dam was last inspected on May 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.