De Cordova Bend Dam
Key Takeaway
De Cordova Bend Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 | 79 ft (taller than 98.6% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 2,200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 240.6K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 136.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,350 acres |
| Drainage Area | 15,451 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 635,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1969 (57 years old) |
| NID ID | TX03956 |
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
BRAZOS RIVER AUTHORITY
Local Government
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High Hazard 14 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of De Cordova Bend Dam?
De Cordova Bend 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 De Cordova Bend Dam?
De Cordova Bend Dam is owned by BRAZOS RIVER AUTHORITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was De Cordova Bend Dam built?
De Cordova Bend Dam was completed in 1969, making it 57 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 De Cordova Bend Dam?
De Cordova Bend Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is De Cordova Bend Dam?
De Cordova Bend Dam has a dam height of 79 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 De Cordova Bend Dam last inspected?
De Cordova Bend Dam was last inspected on August 5, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.