Little Elm Laterals Ws Scs Site 17 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Little Elm Laterals WS SCS Site 17 Dam, located in Denton, Texas, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the Little Elm Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1971, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and spans a length of 1274 feet, providing essential storage capacity of 1156 acre-feet during peak flows. While its spillway type is listed as 'None', the dam serves as a critical infrastructure for managing stormwater and protecting downstream communities from potential flooding.

Managed by the TCEQ and state-regulated for inspection, permitting, and enforcement, the primary purpose of the Little Elm Laterals WS SCS Site 17 Dam is to safeguard the surrounding area from flood risks. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for condition assessment, yet it continues to play a crucial role in mitigating flood events in the region. As a key component of the local government's water resource management strategy, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of climate resilience and adaptive infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.

With a risk assessment rating of 'High (2)', the Little Elm Laterals WS SCS Site 17 Dam underscores the ongoing need for effective risk management measures and emergency preparedness. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of infrastructure like this dam in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events. By understanding and supporting the maintenance and enhancement of such structures, we can work towards creating more resilient and sustainable water resource systems for the future.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

1274

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE ELM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

36

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

2.17

Nid Storage

1156

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.