Longhorn Dam, located in Austin, Texas, stands as a testament to engineering excellence, with a height of 65 feet and a length of 1240 feet.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1960, this gravity dam on the Colorado River serves multiple purposes, including recreational activities and water resource management. Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam has a normal storage capacity of 3520 acre-feet, providing essential water supply for the region.
The dam's design, overseen by BROWN AND ROOT INC, features a buttress core supported by rock and soil foundations. With a maximum discharge capacity of 859,400 cubic feet per second, Longhorn Dam plays a crucial role in flood control and maintaining the ecological balance of the Colorado River. Despite not having a hazard potential rating or a condition assessment, the dam continues to be inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
Longhorn Dam's strategic location, its contribution to water storage, and its impact on the surrounding environment make it a significant landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a gravity dam with controlled outlets and valves, it exemplifies the intersection of engineering ingenuity and environmental stewardship, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climates.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
1240 |
Dam Height |
65 |
River Or Stream |
COLORADO RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
480 |
Hydraulic Height |
65 |
Drainage Area |
0.42 |
Nid Storage |
6850 |
Structural Height |
65 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 2, Uncontrolled - 1, Valve - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
65 |
Boggy Ck At Webberville Rd
|
0cfs |
Colorado Rv At Austin
|
36cfs |
Waller Ck At E 1st St
|
12cfs |
Waller Ck At Red River St
|
10cfs |
Boggy Ck At Manor Rd
|
0cfs |
Shoal Ck At W 12th St
|
0cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
McKinney Falls State Park
|
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Camp Mabry Military
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Emma Long Metropolitan Park
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