Summary
Designed by HDR and Vernon L. Sullivan, this earth dam reaches a height of 106 feet and spans a length of 9320 feet, with a storage capacity of over half a million acre-feet. The dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 151,000 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 309,001 cubic feet per second.
Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Red Bluff Dam undergoes regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam features a spillway width of 1540 feet and a series of outlet gates, including Tainter and radial gates, to manage water flow effectively. Despite its moderate hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition, indicating the need for ongoing risk management practices and emergency preparedness measures.
As a key component of water resource management in Loving County, Texas, Red Bluff Dam represents a vital infrastructure supporting the local economy and ecosystem. With its historical significance and continued relevance in the face of changing climate patterns, the dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing water resources for sustainable development in arid regions.
Years Modified |
2015 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
9320 |
Dam Height |
106 |
River Or Stream |
PECOS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7337 |
Hydraulic Height |
106 |
Drainage Area |
2869 |
Nid Storage |
516785 |
Structural Height |
106 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 12, Uncontrolled - 3, Valve - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
106 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pecos River Near Orla
|
0cfs |
Delaware River Nr Red Bluff
|
0cfs |
Pecos River At Red Bluff
|
57cfs |
Pecos River At Pierce Canyon Crossing
|
27cfs |
Pecos River Near Malaga
|
67cfs |
Black River Above Malaga
|
54cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Red Bluff Dam
Red Bluff Res Nr Orla