Comanche Peak Safe Shutdown Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Glen Rose, Texas, the Comanche Peak Safe Shutdown Dam serves as a crucial Category I Emergency Cooling Water structure for the public utility.


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Summary

Designed by FREESE & NICHOLS INC, this Rockfill dam stands at a height of 71 feet and spans a length of 1520 feet, with a storage capacity of 875 acre-feet. Completed in 1979, it is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and inspected by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam has a moderate risk rating of 3, emphasizing the importance of ongoing risk management measures.

The dam's purpose extends beyond traditional water resource management, reflecting its unique role in supporting emergency cooling operations at the Comanche Peak Nuclear Power Plant. Situated on Squaw Creek, the dam plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and stability of the plant's operations. While it has not undergone significant modifications in recent years, regular inspections and maintenance uphold its functionality and reliability. The surrounding area, including Somervell County, benefits from the dam's presence as a safeguard against potential emergencies.

With a spillway width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 5921 cubic feet per second, the Comanche Peak Safe Shutdown Dam is equipped to handle sudden surges in water flow. Its location within the Fort Worth District adds to its strategic significance within the region. As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure resilience, the dam's role in emergency preparedness and risk mitigation becomes increasingly vital. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the nuances of structures like the Comanche Peak Safe Shutdown Dam underscores the interconnectedness of water management, energy production, and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving challenges.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

1520

Dam Height

71

River Or Stream

SQUAW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

39.8

Drainage Area

3.47

Nid Storage

875

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

71
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.