Natural Dam
Key Takeaway
Natural Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 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 | 47 ft (taller than 91.6% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 1,750 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 207.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 54.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3,710 acres |
| Drainage Area | 485 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 67,001 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| NID ID | TX06028 |
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
COLORADO RIVER MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Natural Dam?
Natural 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 Natural Dam?
Natural Dam is owned by COLORADO RIVER MUNICIPAL WATER DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Natural Dam built?
Natural Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Natural Dam?
Natural Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Natural Dam?
Natural Dam has a dam height of 47 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 Natural Dam last inspected?
Natural Dam was last inspected on December 19, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.