Memphis Avenue Dam
Key Takeaway
Memphis Avenue Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 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 | 27 ft (taller than 58.3% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 350 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 12 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 707 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1934 (92 years old) |
| NID ID | TX07017 |
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 EL PASO
Local Government
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High Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Memphis Avenue Dam?
Memphis Avenue 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 Memphis Avenue Dam?
Memphis Avenue Dam is owned by CITY OF EL PASO (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Memphis Avenue Dam built?
Memphis Avenue Dam was completed in 1934, making it 92 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 Memphis Avenue Dam?
Memphis Avenue Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Memphis Avenue Dam?
Memphis Avenue Dam has a dam height of 27 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 Memphis Avenue Dam last inspected?
Memphis Avenue Dam was last inspected on February 12, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.