Jim Thornton Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Jim Thornton Dam, located in Bell County, Texas, stands as a vital water resource for irrigation and recreation along Bird Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1925, this earth dam has a height of 30 feet and a length of 800 feet, providing a storage capacity of 778 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 236 feet and a maximum discharge of 19,727 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and preventing flooding in the area.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Jim Thornton Dam has undergone structural modifications in 1994 to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam is in satisfactory condition according to the latest assessment in August 2016, with an inspection frequency of every five years. Although the hazard potential is not available, the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures for the dam.

With its strategic location in Temple, Texas, and its significant impact on the surrounding community, Jim Thornton Dam serves as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As a key infrastructure for water supply and recreational activities, the dam represents a crucial link between water resources and climate resilience in the region, highlighting the need for continued investment and maintenance to ensure its long-term functionality and safety.

Years Modified

1994 - Structural

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

BIRD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

31

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

2.57

Nid Storage

778

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.