Helms Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Helms Lake Dam is classified as low hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 years old. Its primary use is water supply.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 29 ft (taller than 64.3% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 359 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 267 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 170 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1960 (66 years old) |
| NID ID | TX03717 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
OL HELM
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Helms Lake Dam?
Helms Lake Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Helms Lake Dam?
Helms Lake Dam is owned by OL HELM (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Helms Lake Dam built?
Helms Lake Dam was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 Helms Lake Dam?
Helms Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Helms Lake Dam?
Helms Lake Dam has a dam height of 29 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.