Jim Thornton Dam
Key Takeaway
Jim Thornton Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1925 and is 101 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 | 30 ft (taller than 67.1% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 779 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 208 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 31 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 19,727 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1925 (101 years old) |
| NID ID | TX02334 |
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 TEMPLE
Local Government
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High Hazard 10 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Jim Thornton Dam?
Jim Thornton 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 Jim Thornton Dam?
Jim Thornton Dam is owned by CITY OF TEMPLE (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Jim Thornton Dam built?
Jim Thornton Dam was completed in 1925, making it 101 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 Jim Thornton Dam?
Jim Thornton Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Jim Thornton Dam?
Jim Thornton Dam has a dam height of 30 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 Jim Thornton Dam last inspected?
Jim Thornton Dam was last inspected on November 3, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.