Sanford is a federal water resource located in Hutchinson County, Texas, along the Canadian River. Built in 1965 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this earth dam stands at a height of 228 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of over 2.3 million acre-feet, Sanford covers a surface area of 16,513 acres and has a drainage area of 20,220 square miles. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 61 feet, and it has a maximum discharge of 61,100 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Sanford's overall risk assessment is moderate. The dam has undergone regular inspections by the Bureau of Reclamation, with the last inspection conducted in August 2020. Emergency action plans have been prepared and revised periodically, with the most recent update in November 2014. While the condition assessment of Sanford is currently listed as "Not Available," the dam's risk management measures and inundation maps are in place to address any potential hazards and ensure the safety of surrounding communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sanford presents an intriguing case study of a vital infrastructure project designed to provide both recreational opportunities and crucial water management services in the Texas region.