Fusselman Dam

FUSSELMAN CANYON ARROYO· El Paso, Texas· Built 1961· Earth· 94 ft tall
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Local Government

Key Takeaway

Fusselman Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 94 ft (taller than 99.2% in TX)
Dam Length1,190 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage825 acre-ft
Normal Storage0 acre-ft
Surface Area0 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Max Discharge6,734 cfs
Year Completed1961 (65 years old)
NID IDTX01969

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: February 11, 2020
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: TCEQ

Ownership

CITY OF EL PASO

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Fusselman Dam?

Fusselman 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 Fusselman Dam?

Fusselman Dam is owned by CITY OF EL PASO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Fusselman Dam built?

Fusselman 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 Fusselman Dam?

Fusselman Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Fusselman Dam?

Fusselman Dam has a dam height of 94 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 Fusselman Dam last inspected?

Fusselman Dam was last inspected on February 11, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.