Lake Sulphur Springs Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Sulphur Springs Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1973 and is 53 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 44 ft (taller than 89.1% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 6,232 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 49.9K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 17.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,913 acres |
| Drainage Area | 66 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 49,801 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1973 (53 years old) |
| NID ID | TX04356 |
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 SULPHUR SPRINGS
Local Government
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High Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Sulphur Springs Dam?
Lake Sulphur Springs 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 Sulphur Springs Dam?
Lake Sulphur Springs Dam is owned by CITY OF SULPHUR SPRINGS (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Sulphur Springs Dam built?
Lake Sulphur Springs Dam was completed in 1973, making it 53 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 Sulphur Springs Dam?
Lake Sulphur Springs Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Sulphur Springs Dam?
Lake Sulphur Springs Dam has a dam height of 44 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 Sulphur Springs Dam last inspected?
Lake Sulphur Springs Dam was last inspected on November 4, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.