Sheldon Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
Sheldon Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1944 and is 82 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 | 12 ft (taller than 7.4% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 36,600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 21.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 5.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,679 acres |
| Drainage Area | 9 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,033 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1944 (82 years old) |
| NID ID | TX03415 |
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
TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT
State Government
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Low Hazard 8 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sheldon Reservoir Dam?
Sheldon Reservoir 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 Sheldon Reservoir Dam?
Sheldon Reservoir Dam is owned by TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sheldon Reservoir Dam built?
Sheldon Reservoir Dam was completed in 1944, making it 82 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 Sheldon Reservoir Dam?
Sheldon Reservoir 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 Sheldon Reservoir Dam?
Sheldon Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 12 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 Sheldon Reservoir Dam last inspected?
Sheldon Reservoir Dam was last inspected on July 24, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.