Mountain Creek Dam, located in Dallas, Texas, is a private earth dam completed in 1936 with a height of 47 feet and a length of 8200 feet, impounding the waters of Mountain Creek. Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam serves multiple purposes, including flood control and water supply. With a storage capacity of 64,372 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 128,502 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 249 feet and outlet gates for water release. It underwent mechanical modifications in 1999 to enhance its operational efficiency. Despite being classified as having a very high risk potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2014 deemed it as satisfactory. Regular inspections are conducted every 5 years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Mountain Creek Dam remains a key infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the area.
Overall, Mountain Creek Dam stands as a vital engineering feat in maintaining a balance between water regulation and environmental protection. As a focal point for water enthusiasts and climate advocates, the dam's role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water supply highlights the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in the face of changing climate patterns. Its history, design, and operational features make it a noteworthy structure that underscores the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in the region.