Gwendolyn Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gwendolyn Dam, located in Austin, Texas, serves as a critical infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the area.


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Summary

Built in 1983 by designers Carlson & Dippel, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and stretches 1020 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding community from potential flooding events.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Gwendolyn Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. The dam is classified as having a fair condition assessment as of April 2021. Despite not having a spillway, the dam is designed to efficiently control water levels and reduce flood risks in the area, showcasing its importance in water resource management for the region.

While the dam holds a high risk assessment rating, with a hazard potential not available, it continues to provide essential flood protection and water management services to the residents of Austin. With a commitment to regular maintenance and adherence to regulatory guidelines, Gwendolyn Dam stands as a key asset in safeguarding the local community and ensuring sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

Years Modified

2004 - Other

Year Completed

1983

Dam Length

1020

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

58

Structural Height

8

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.