Riverside Diversion Dam

RIO GRANDE· El Paso, Texas· Built 1928· Gravity· 8 ft tall
High Hazard Irrigation Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Riverside Diversion Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1928 and is 98 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. 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 8 ft (taller than 1.1% in TX)
Dam Length267 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage400 acre-ft
Normal Storage350 acre-ft
Surface Area0 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1928 (98 years old)
NID IDTX00025

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: July 19, 1996
State Regulated: No

Ownership

US DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Riverside Diversion Dam?

Riverside Diversion 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 Riverside Diversion Dam?

Riverside Diversion Dam is owned by US DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Riverside Diversion Dam built?

Riverside Diversion Dam was completed in 1928, making it 98 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 Riverside Diversion Dam?

Riverside Diversion Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Riverside Diversion Dam?

Riverside Diversion Dam has a dam height of 8 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 Riverside Diversion Dam last inspected?

Riverside Diversion Dam was last inspected on July 19, 1996. 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.