Morris Sheppard Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Morris Sheppard Dam, located on the Brazos River in Palo Pinto, Texas, is a significant hydroelectric structure designed by Forrest and Cotton and Freese and Nichols Inc.


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Summary

Completed in 1941, this buttress dam stands at a height of 187 feet and has a structural height of 189 feet, with a length of 2740 feet. It serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, recreation, and water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 750,000 acre-feet.

With a drainage area of 14,030 square miles, Morris Sheppard Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Texas. It has a maximum discharge capacity of 507,762 cubic feet per second, ensuring flood control and water supply reliability for the region. The dam's fair condition assessment as of April 2021, along with its state-regulated status and regular inspections, demonstrate a commitment to safety and operational efficiency.

In addition to its engineering significance, Morris Sheppard Dam offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and serves as a key infrastructure asset in the region. Its strategic location on the Brazos River and impressive design make it a noteworthy landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the intersection of human-made structures and natural ecosystems.

Years Modified

1994 - Structural

Year Completed

1941

Dam Length

2740

Dam Height

187

River Or Stream

BRAZOS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

17700

Hydraulic Height

187

Drainage Area

14030

Nid Storage

1365000

Structural Height

189

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1, Uncontrolled - 1, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

189
       
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.