Duval Dam West Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Duval Dam West, located in Travis County, Texas, is a critical infrastructure designed by FREESE AND NICHOLS to mitigate flood risks along Walnut Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1984, this Roller-Compacted Concrete dam stands at 28 feet tall and spans 1340 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. Despite its primary purpose being flood risk reduction, the dam's current condition assessment is unsatisfactory, highlighting the need for maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the surrounding area.

Managed by a local government entity, Duval Dam West falls under the regulatory oversight of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's spillway, with a width of 13 feet, is uncontrolled, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to prevent potential hazards. The moderate risk assessment rating, combined with the dam's outdated last inspection date in 2014, underscores the importance of proactive risk management measures and emergency preparedness protocols to safeguard the community in case of unforeseen events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Duval Dam West serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental protection, and public safety. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, the maintenance and resilience of structures like Duval Dam West are crucial for ensuring the sustainable management of water resources and minimizing the potential for catastrophic flooding. Collaborative efforts between local authorities, regulatory agencies, and the community will be essential in safeguarding the integrity of Duval Dam West and enhancing its capacity to adapt to evolving climate challenges in the years to come.

Year Completed

1984

Dam Length

1340

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

WALNUT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Roller-Compacted Concrete

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

1.71

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.