Jim Thornton Dam, located in Bell County, Texas, stands as a vital water resource for irrigation and recreation along Bird Creek.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
Leon Rv Nr Belton
|
10cfs |
Nolan Ck At S Penelope
|
29cfs |
Little Rv Nr Little River
|
97cfs |
Lampasas Rv Nr Belton
|
7cfs |
Salado Ck At Salado
|
8cfs |
N Elm Ck At Rosebud Rd Nr Meeks
|
0cfs |
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