Lake Cliff Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Cliff Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1914 and is 112 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 | 26 ft (taller than 55.2% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 246 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 77 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1914 (112 years old) |
| NID ID | TX00829 |
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 DALLAS
Local Government
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High Hazard 43 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Cliff Dam?
Lake Cliff 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 Lake Cliff Dam?
Lake Cliff Dam is owned by CITY OF DALLAS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Cliff Dam built?
Lake Cliff Dam was completed in 1914, making it 112 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 Lake Cliff Dam?
Lake Cliff Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Cliff Dam?
Lake Cliff Dam has a dam height of 26 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 Lake Cliff Dam last inspected?
Lake Cliff Dam was last inspected on June 23, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.