Wirtz Dam
Key Takeaway
Wirtz Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 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 | 118 ft (taller than 99.6% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 5,687 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 223.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 134.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6,534 acres |
| Drainage Area | 38 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 269,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1951 (75 years old) |
| NID ID | TX00986 |
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
LOWER COLORADO RIVER AUTHORITY
Local Government
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Low Hazard 22 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wirtz Dam?
Wirtz 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 Wirtz Dam?
Wirtz Dam is owned by LOWER COLORADO RIVER AUTHORITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wirtz Dam built?
Wirtz Dam was completed in 1951, making it 75 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 Wirtz Dam?
Wirtz Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Wirtz Dam?
Wirtz Dam has a dam height of 118 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 Wirtz Dam last inspected?
Wirtz Dam was last inspected on November 12, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.