Russell Dam
Key Takeaway
Russell Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 28 ft (taller than 61.3% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 1,077 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 426 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 199 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 23 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,774 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| NID ID | TX02057 |
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
SPEARS CHARLOTTE R AND RUSSELL J WM JR
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Russell Dam?
Russell 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 Russell Dam?
Russell Dam is owned by SPEARS CHARLOTTE R AND RUSSELL J WM JR (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Russell Dam built?
Russell Dam was completed in 1958, making it 68 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 Russell Dam?
Russell Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Russell Dam?
Russell Dam has a dam height of 28 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 Russell Dam last inspected?
Russell Dam was last inspected on December 1, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.