Gibbons Creek Dam, located in Navasota, Texas, is a local government-owned structure that serves multiple purposes, with its primary function being hydroelectric power generation.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1981 by FREESE AND NICHOLS, this earth dam stands at a height of 50 feet and spans 6150 feet in length. It harnesses the waters of the Gibbons Creek for storage, with a maximum capacity of 81,874 acre-feet and normal storage of 32,084 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 2770 acres.
Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Gibbons Creek Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and compliance with standards. The dam's spillway width of 1636 feet allows for a maximum discharge of 204,150 cubic feet per second, providing flood control measures for the surrounding area. With its strategic location in Grimes County and close proximity to the Galveston District, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and recreation in the region.
With an intricate system of outlet gates and a history of periodic inspections, Gibbons Creek Dam is a vital infrastructure that contributes to the sustainability of water resources and climate resilience. Its presence not only supports hydroelectric power generation but also offers recreational opportunities for the community. As a key element in the local water management network, the dam symbolizes the intersection of engineering innovation, environmental stewardship, and public safety in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
6150 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
GIBBONS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2770 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
85 |
Nid Storage |
81874 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1, Slide (sluice gate) - 3, Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
50 |