Wheeler Branch Dam
Key Takeaway
Wheeler Branch Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 2008 and is 18 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 | 91 ft (taller than 99.1% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 1,800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 6.2K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 4.1K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 169 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,487 cfs |
| Year Completed | 2008 (18 years old) |
| NID ID | TX07203 |
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
SOMERVELL COUNTY WATER DISTRICT
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Wheeler Branch Dam?
Wheeler Branch 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 Wheeler Branch Dam?
Wheeler Branch Dam is owned by SOMERVELL COUNTY WATER DISTRICT (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wheeler Branch Dam built?
Wheeler Branch Dam was completed in 2008, making it 18 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 Wheeler Branch Dam?
Wheeler Branch Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Wheeler Branch Dam?
Wheeler Branch Dam has a dam height of 91 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 Wheeler Branch Dam last inspected?
Wheeler Branch Dam was last inspected on December 10, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.