Spindletop Weir Saltwater Barrier Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Spindletop Weir Saltwater Barrier, located in Jefferson County, Texas, serves as a crucial structure for irrigation purposes along the Spindletop Bayou.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1954, this buttress dam stands at a height of 12 feet and stretches 360 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 375 acre-feet, the barrier effectively prevents saltwater intrusion and maintains a reliable water supply for agricultural needs in the region.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Spindletop Weir Saltwater Barrier plays a key role in water resource management. Despite its age, the dam's high hazard potential and risk assessment rating of 2 highlight the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. While the barrier currently does not feature a spillway, outlet gates are in place to control water flow and mitigate any potential risks associated with flooding or other emergencies.

As a vital component of the region's water infrastructure, the Spindletop Weir Saltwater Barrier stands as a testament to the importance of balancing water resource management with environmental protection. With its strategic location and significant impact on irrigation operations, this barrier continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding water quality and supply for the community.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

360

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

SPINDLETOP BAYOU

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

375

Structural Height

9

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.