Copper Avenue Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Copper Avenue Dam, located in El Paso, Texas, was completed in 1948 and serves as a crucial structure for flood risk reduction along a tributary of the Rio Grande.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, primarily owned by the local government, stands at a height of 40 feet with a length of 450 feet. With a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1012 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in managing water flow and mitigating potential flood hazards in the area.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Copper Avenue Dam is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam's condition assessment in 2016 rated it as "fair", highlighting the ongoing efforts to monitor and address any potential risks associated with its operation. While the hazard potential is not specified, the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk (3), emphasizing the importance of effective risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding communities and water resources.

As a key component in the local flood risk reduction strategy, Copper Avenue Dam continues to play a critical role in protecting the El Paso area from potential water-related emergencies. With its earth dam design and uncontrolled spillway, the dam's operation is closely monitored and regulated to ensure its effectiveness in managing water flow and minimizing flood risks. Climate and water resource enthusiasts are drawn to the intricate balance between infrastructure and natural forces exemplified by structures like Copper Avenue Dam.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

40

River Or Stream

TRIB. OF RIO GRANDE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.5

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

0.13

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

40

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

40
       
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.
View more

Nearby Reservoirs

View more

Featured Parks