Mansfield Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mansfield Dam, located in Travis County, Texas, is a key structure along the Colorado River designed by the Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation in 1942.


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Summary

This rockfill dam stands at an impressive height of 277 feet and spans over 7,000 feet in length, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. The dam has a storage capacity of over 3 million acre-feet and serves various purposes including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and water supply for the region.

Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Mansfield Dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from flooding. With a satisfactory condition assessment and a regular inspection frequency, the dam ensures the safety and security of its infrastructure. The dam's association with the Galveston District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores its importance in water resource management in the region.

As a significant landmark in the water resource and climate sector, Mansfield Dam not only provides essential flood protection but also contributes to the sustainable development of the area. With its strategic location and impressive engineering, Mansfield Dam stands as a testament to effective water management practices, serving as a vital asset for the community of Austin and beyond.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

7089

Dam Height

277

River Or Stream

COLORADO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

18929

Hydraulic Height

277

Drainage Area

38130

Nid Storage

3223000

Structural Height

278

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1, Uncontrolled - 1, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

278
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.