Pershing Dam
Key Takeaway
Pershing Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1977 and is 49 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 | 48 ft (taller than 92.3% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 3,495 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,741 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1977 (49 years old) |
| NID ID | TX08002 |
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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What is the hazard classification of Pershing Dam?
Pershing 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 Pershing Dam?
Pershing 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 Pershing Dam built?
Pershing Dam was completed in 1977, making it 49 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 Pershing Dam?
Pershing Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Debris Control. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Pershing Dam?
Pershing Dam has a dam height of 48 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 Pershing Dam last inspected?
Pershing Dam was last inspected on March 6, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.