Belton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Belton Dam, located in Bell County, Texas, along the Leon River, serves multiple purposes such as flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1954 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam stands at 192 feet high and has a storage capacity of 1,876,700 acre-feet. Despite its successful history of managing flood events, Belton Dam still poses a high hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment due to potential flaws or defects in its embankment and foundation.

To mitigate the risks associated with the dam, regular inspections, monitoring, and maintenance activities are conducted by the US Army Corps of Engineers. These measures include surveillance as the lake elevation rises, rehabilitation of service gates, and implementation of interim risk reduction measures. Additionally, the USACE collaborates closely with local emergency managers to conduct emergency exercises, update evacuation plans, and communicate risks annually with stakeholders and emergency responders. Although Belton Dam has a strong safety record, the possibility of downstream flooding in nearby communities like Belton and Temple remains a concern in the event of extreme rainfall or a dam breach, emphasizing the ongoing need for vigilance and preparedness.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

5524

Dam Height

192

River Or Stream

LEON RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12300

Hydraulic Height

187

Drainage Area

3560

Nid Storage

1876700

Structural Height

192

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

192
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.