Elm Fork Ws Scs Site 61l Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Elm Fork WS SCS Site 61l Dam, located in Cooke, Texas, is a crucial structure designed by USDA NRCS with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR-Elm Fork Trinity River.
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Summary
Built in 1962, this earth dam stands at 40 feet in height, with a length of 780 feet and a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam remains state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
This dam plays a vital role in mitigating flood risks in the area, with a normal storage of 37 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.72 square miles. While the hazard potential and condition assessment are currently not available, the risk assessment categorizes it as high. The dam does not have a spillway but features one outlet gate, emphasizing its reliance on structural integrity for flood control. With its strategic location and design, Elm Fork WS SCS Site 61l Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Elm Fork WS SCS Site 61l Dam offers a compelling case study in flood risk reduction infrastructure. Its historical significance, design details, and ongoing regulatory oversight provide valuable insights into the intersection of water management, environmental protection, and community resilience. By understanding the complexities and challenges associated with such structures, enthusiasts can appreciate the critical role dams play in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the impacts of extreme weather events and climate change.
Year Completed |
1962 |
Dam Length |
780 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ELM FORK TRINITY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
40 |
Drainage Area |
0.72 |
Nid Storage |
350 |
Structural Height |
40 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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