Rock Cliff Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Rock Cliff Dam, located in Bandera, Texas, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and resource management.


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Summary

Constructed in 1964, this private-owned Earth-type dam serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock, and small fish pond maintenance, as well as recreation. With a height of 50.7 feet and a length of 560 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 2,258 acre-feet, making it a significant contributor to water resource management in the area.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Rock Cliff Dam undergoes regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a fair condition assessment as of February 2016, the dam poses a moderate risk level, highlighting the importance of effective risk management measures. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 720 feet, further emphasizes the need for careful monitoring and emergency preparedness.

Rock Cliff Dam serves as a vital structure in the region's water management system, providing essential services and recreational opportunities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Rock Cliff are crucial to ensuring a sustainable and secure water supply for the community.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

560

Dam Height

50.7

River Or Stream

SPIRES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

96

Hydraulic Height

50.7

Drainage Area

3.8

Nid Storage

2258

Structural Height

61

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

61
       
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.