Golden Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Golden Dam, located in Comanche, Texas, is a private earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes on Henderson Branch.


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Summary

Built in 1965 by the USDA NRCS, this 24-foot high structure has a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 166 acre-feet. The dam spans 1406 feet in length and is supported by a buttress core design, serving as a vital water resource for the surrounding agricultural community.

Despite its age, Golden Dam's condition assessment remains unrated, with a high hazard potential due to its critical role in water management. While the dam lacks a spillway, it boasts a single outlet gate for controlled water release. The dam is not under state jurisdiction but undergoes regular inspections and permitting by Texas authorities. With no associated structures and a risk assessment rating of 2 (high), Golden Dam stands as a crucial piece of infrastructure in the region's water resource management.

Golden Dam's presence underscores the importance of sustainable water practices in the face of climate change. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of dams like Golden Dam in ensuring water security and agricultural sustainability is paramount. With ongoing risk management measures and a commitment to regulatory compliance, Golden Dam serves as a symbol of resilience and adaptation in the ever-changing landscape of water resource management.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

1406

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

HENDERSON BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.