Graham Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Graham Dam, located on Salt Creek in Young, Texas, is a vital water resource infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

Constructed in 1959 by FREESE AND NICHOLS, this Earth-type dam stands at 82 feet tall and spans 4300 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 105,000 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose includes water supply and other functions, serving the community of GRAHAM and beyond.

With its uncontrolled spillway and a maximum discharge capacity of 175,000 cubic feet per second, Graham Dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and preventing flooding in the area. The dam's inspection and regulatory protocols are overseen by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), ensuring its structural integrity and operational efficiency. Despite being rated as having a moderate risk level, the dam's hazard potential and condition assessment are not readily available, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and risk management measures.

As a key component of water management in the region, Graham Dam serves as a cornerstone for water supply and flood control along Salt Creek. With its historical significance and ongoing importance, the dam underscores the intersection of infrastructure, climate resilience, and community well-being in the face of changing environmental conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Graham Dam represents a tangible example of the critical infrastructure that sustains our communities and ecosystems in the face of climate challenges.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

4300

Dam Height

82

River Or Stream

SALT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1900

Hydraulic Height

82

Drainage Area

42

Nid Storage

105000

Structural Height

82

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1, Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

82
       
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.