Summary
Constructed in 1975 by BURL R PETERSON, this earth dam spans 700 feet in length and reaches a height of 43 feet, holding a maximum storage capacity of 1498 acre-feet. Situated along the South Cita Canyon Creek, the dam serves a drainage area of 20.4 square miles and features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 340 feet.
Managed and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Stanley Schaeffer Dam has undergone inspections every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the dam's hazard potential and condition assessment are currently not available, it is classified as having a moderate risk level. In the event of an emergency, the dam has one uncontrolled outlet gate and an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) that was last revised in 2011. Despite its age, Stanley Schaeffer Dam continues to play a crucial role in sustaining agricultural water supplies in the region.
As a significant water management infrastructure in Texas, Stanley Schaeffer Dam not only provides essential irrigation support but also contributes to flood control measures in the area. With its strategic location and design features, including a stone core and soil foundation, the dam ensures the efficient utilization of water resources for agricultural activities. As climate change continues to impact water availability and distribution, the proper maintenance and oversight of dams like Stanley Schaeffer are crucial in safeguarding water security and resilience in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH CITA CANYON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15 |
Hydraulic Height |
43 |
Drainage Area |
20.4 |
Nid Storage |
1498 |
Structural Height |
43 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
43 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Stanley Schaeffer Dam