Shelton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shelton Lake Dam, located in Henderson, Texas, is a private-owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1934, stands at a height of 22 feet and stretches across a length of 2000 feet, creating a storage capacity of 603 acre-feet. The dam overlooks the scenic Shelton Mill Branch, providing a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam has been inspected regularly, with the last assessment in 2015 deeming its condition as fair. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 254 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 19501 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been designated with a hazard potential, indicating its overall safety and stability.

For those interested in water resource management and climate conservation, Shelton Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of infrastructure and natural beauty. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance, the dam continues to be a vital component of the local ecosystem, providing both recreational enjoyment and environmental protection along the Shelton Mill Branch.

Years Modified

1990 - Structural

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

2000

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

SHELTON MILL BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

127

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

20.62

Nid Storage

1941

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.