Max Starcke Dam

COLORADO RIVER· Burnet, Texas· Built 1951· Gravity· 99 ft tall
Significant Hazard Hydroelectric Recreation Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Max Starcke Dam is classified as significant hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 99 ft (taller than 99.3% in TX)
Dam Length896 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage8.8K acre-ft
Normal Storage8.8K acre-ft
Surface Area780 acres
Drainage Area36,325 sq mi
Max Discharge421,000 cfs
Year Completed1951 (75 years old)
NID IDTX00987

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: November 4, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: TCEQ

Ownership

LOWER COLORADO RIVER AUTHORITY

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Max Starcke Dam?

Max Starcke Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Max Starcke Dam?

Max Starcke Dam is owned by LOWER COLORADO RIVER AUTHORITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Max Starcke Dam built?

Max Starcke Dam was completed in 1951, making it 75 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 Max Starcke Dam?

Max Starcke Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Max Starcke Dam?

Max Starcke Dam has a dam height of 99 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 Max Starcke Dam last inspected?

Max Starcke Dam was last inspected on November 4, 2022. 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.