Belton Dam, located in Bell County, Texas, along the Leon River, serves multiple purposes such as flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
Leon Rv Nr Belton
|
10cfs |
Nolan Ck At S Penelope
|
29cfs |
Lampasas Rv Nr Belton
|
7cfs |
Salado Ck At Salado
|
8cfs |
Little Rv Nr Little River
|
97cfs |
Lampasas Rv At Ding Dong
|
39cfs |