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.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
Paluxy Rv At Glen Rose
|
10cfs |
Brazos Rv Nr Glen Rose
|
28cfs |
Brazos Rv Ds Lk Granbury Nr Granbury
|
15cfs |
Brazos Rv Nr Dennis
|
109cfs |
Nolan Rv At Blum
|
8cfs |
N Bosque Rv At Hico
|
5cfs |