Dahl Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Schultz Stinson
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Dahl Dam in Hansford, Texas, stands as a vital resource for fire protection, livestock, and small fish pond purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam with a height of 26 feet and a length of 420 feet serves the surrounding community by providing a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet of water. Located along the TR-Palo Duro Creek and managed by a private entity, Dahl Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Despite its primary purpose, the dam also functions as a potential hazard with a high risk assessment rating. While not currently rated for condition assessment, the dam's lack of an emergency action plan and inundation maps raises concerns about its preparedness for any unforeseen events. With no state jurisdiction or regulatory enforcement, Dahl Dam's maintenance and safety fall under the responsibility of its private owner. Climate and water enthusiasts should keep a close eye on this structure to ensure proper risk management measures are in place to protect surrounding communities and the environment.
As water resources face increasing stress due to climate change, the significance of dams like Dahl Dam in providing crucial services cannot be understated. With its proximity to the Palo Duro Creek and the potential for downstream impacts, monitoring and maintaining the integrity of this dam is essential for mitigating risks and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources in the region. As discussions around climate adaptation and water management continue, the role of structures like Dahl Dam will be a key focal point in ensuring the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PALO DURO CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Drainage Area |
300 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Palo Duro Ck Nr Spearman
|
0cfs |
Beaver River At Beaver
|
0cfs |
Wolf Ck At Lipscomb
|
1cfs |
Cimarron River Near Forgan
|
19cfs |
Canadian Rv Nr Canadian
|
44cfs |
Big Blue Ck Nr Fritch
|
0cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Palo Duro
|
||
Hardesty Park - Optima Lake
|
||
Hardesty Park
|
||
Angler Point
|
Dahl Dam
Palo Duro Res Nr Spearman