Summary
Built in 1963 by the US Army, this earth dam stands at 24 feet high and spans 900 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 490 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Dam 48 is for recreation, serving as a fish and wildlife pond, water supply, and offering various recreational activities for visitors.
Despite its recreational value, Dam 48 is classified as having a high hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. While the dam is not state-regulated, it is subject to federal oversight and inspections by the US Army. The spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 60 feet, and the dam features an uncontrolled outlet gate system. Although the condition assessment is not currently available, the last inspection took place in September 2020, with a frequency of every 4 years.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dam 48 presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure management and the balance between recreational use and public safety. As a vital structure in the area, its design, construction, and ongoing maintenance by the US Army highlight the complexities of managing water resources in a changing climate. With its scenic location and diverse purposes, Dam 48 serves as a valuable asset for both wildlife and visitors, while also posing potential risks that require careful monitoring and management to ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
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Wind
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Humidity
15-Day Weather Outlook
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
North Nolan Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
18 |
Drainage Area |
2 |
Nid Storage |
490 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nolan Ck At S Penelope
|
40cfs |
Leon Rv Nr Belton
|
25cfs |
Lampasas Rv At Ding Dong
|
27cfs |
Lampasas Rv Nr Belton
|
8cfs |
Cowhouse Ck At Pidcoke
|
10cfs |
Salado Ck At Salado
|
10cfs |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Belton Lake Military - Fort Hood
|
||
Westcliff - Belton Lake
|
||
Owl Creek - Belton Lake
|
||
26
|
||
25
|
||
Dana Peak - Stillhouse Hollow Lake
|
Dam 48
Belton Lk Nr Belton
Stillhouse Hollow Lk Nr Belton
Denmans Lane, Belton