Sandlin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sandlin Dam, located in Denton, Texas, was completed in 1957 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam is classified as an Earth-type structure with a height of 9.7 feet and a length of 350 feet, impounding the Fletcher Branch of water. Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and integrity.

The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 60 feet, and it has a storage capacity of 36 acre-feet. Despite being assessed as in fair condition during the last inspection in April 2021, the dam has a moderate risk level (3) according to the hazard potential rating. It is equipped with three uncontrolled outlet gates and has a drainage area of 1.7 square miles, with a maximum discharge of 2 cubic feet per second.

Sandlin Dam presents a unique opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore the intersection of recreational infrastructure and environmental management. With its historical significance, engineering design, and ongoing maintenance efforts, the dam offers a case study in balancing human recreation with the preservation of natural water systems. As a privately-owned structure regulated by state authorities, it showcases the importance of collaboration between public and private entities in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water resources.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

9.7

River Or Stream

FLETCHER BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

9.7

Drainage Area

1.7

Nid Storage

36

Structural Height

9.7

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
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.