Bistone Dam
Key Takeaway
Bistone Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 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 | 50 ft (taller than 93.5% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 1,645 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 44.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.7K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,009 acres |
| Drainage Area | 198 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 161,456 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1961 (65 years old) |
| NID ID | TX01061 |
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
BISTONE MWS DISTRICT
Local Government
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Low Hazard 21 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bistone Dam?
Bistone 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 Bistone Dam?
Bistone Dam is owned by BISTONE MWS DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bistone Dam built?
Bistone Dam was completed in 1961, making it 65 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 Bistone Dam?
Bistone Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Other, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bistone Dam?
Bistone Dam has a dam height of 50 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 Bistone Dam last inspected?
Bistone Dam was last inspected on March 14, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.