Sulphur Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sulphur Dam, located in Lamar County, Texas, was completed in 1979 by the USDA NRCS and is owned by the local government.
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Summary
This earth dam serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the TR-GHOST CREEK, with a structural height of 20 feet and a length of 680 feet. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 54 acre-feet and a normal storage of 11 acre-feet, providing essential protection to the surrounding area.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 92 feet and two uncontrolled outlet gates. Despite being rated as "Not Available" in terms of hazard potential and "Not Rated" in condition assessment, it has been inspected by the TCEQ and is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The risk assessment for Sulphur Dam indicates a moderate level of risk, with measures in place to manage any potential hazards.
With its strategic location and purpose, Sulphur Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find interest in its design, storage capacity, and risk management measures, making it a significant component in the overall water resource infrastructure of Texas.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
680 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GHOST CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
0.09 |
Nid Storage |
54 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
23 |
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.
Sulphur Dam