Hatfield Branch Detention Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Dallas, Texas, the Hatfield Branch Detention Dam serves as a crucial water management structure regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).


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Summary

Completed in 1986, this earth dam stands at a height of 12.8 meters and has a storage capacity of 188 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of flood control, the dam helps mitigate the risk of inundation in the surrounding area.

The Hatfield Branch Detention Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 237 meters and two uncontrolled outlet gates. Despite a fair condition assessment in 2014, the dam is deemed to have a moderate risk level and undergoes inspections every five years. With a maximum discharge of 2900 cubic feet per second, this structure plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the community from potential flooding events. The dam is owned and regulated by local government authorities and is an essential component of the water resource infrastructure in Dallas.

As a significant water management asset in the Fort Worth District, the Hatfield Branch Detention Dam stands as a testament to effective flood control measures in place in Texas. With a solid construction history and ongoing regulatory oversight, this structure remains a critical piece of the region's water resource infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the dam represents a prime example of how engineering solutions can help manage and safeguard against the impact of extreme weather events.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

677

Dam Height

12.8

River Or Stream

HATFIELD BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12.8

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

188

Structural Height

12.8

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

13
       
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.