Thorn Drive Dam
Key Takeaway
Thorn Drive Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1957 and is 69 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 | 50 ft (taller than 93.5% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 3,590 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 773 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 16,301 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1957 (69 years old) |
| NID ID | TX01963 |
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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Low Hazard 20 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Thorn Drive Dam?
Thorn Drive 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 Thorn Drive Dam?
Thorn Drive 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 Thorn Drive Dam built?
Thorn Drive Dam was completed in 1957, making it 69 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 Thorn Drive Dam?
Thorn Drive Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Thorn Drive Dam?
Thorn Drive Dam has a dam height of 50 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 Thorn Drive Dam last inspected?
Thorn Drive Dam was last inspected on April 16, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.