Denver Avenue Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Denver Avenue Dam in El Paso, Texas, is a crucial structure for flood risk reduction along the CH-Rio Grande stream.


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Summary

Built in 1948, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 270 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 9 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having a fair condition assessment as of February 2016, the dam is regularly inspected every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity.

Owned and regulated by local government authorities, the Denver Avenue Dam plays a vital role in managing the risk of flooding in the area. With a moderate hazard potential and an uncontrolled spillway type, the dam has one uncontrolled outlet gate to manage water flow. Located in a region represented by Congressman Veronica Escobar, this dam serves as a key piece of infrastructure in maintaining the safety and security of the surrounding community. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Denver Avenue Dam represents a tangible example of how engineering structures can mitigate natural hazards and protect lives and property.

Year Completed

1948

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

OFF CH-RIO GRANDE

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

0.03

Nid Storage

9

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

20
       
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.