Amistad Dam, located in Del Rio, Texas, is a concrete structure that serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and recreation along the Rio Grande river.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1969 by the International Boundary and Water Commission with design assistance from the US Army Corps of Engineers, the dam stands at a height of 254 feet and has a storage capacity of 5,128,000 acre-feet of water.
With a surface area of 89,000 acres and a drainage area of 123,134 square miles, Amistad Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 800 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 1,507,000 cubic feet per second, making it an essential infrastructure for flood control and water release during peak flow periods. Despite its high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam is monitored by regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.
Amistad Dam serves as a vital resource for the surrounding communities by providing water storage, flood protection, and recreational opportunities. As climate change impacts water resources and weather patterns, the importance of well-maintained dams like Amistad becomes even more critical for sustainable water management and resilience against extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
32022 |
Dam Height |
254 |
River Or Stream |
Rio Grande |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
89000 |
Hydraulic Height |
247 |
Drainage Area |
123134 |
Nid Storage |
5128000 |
Structural Height |
287 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
287 |