Richland Creek Ws Scs Site 18 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Richland Creek WS SCS Site 18 Dam, located in Limestone County, Texas, is a crucial structure designed by the USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along the TR-ELM Creek.


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Summary

Completed in 1963, this earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and stretches over 1772 feet, providing flood risk reduction and storing up to 615 acre-feet of water during peak events. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 92 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 18.9 acres, serving as a vital component in the local water resource management system.

Managed by the local government with regulatory oversight from the TCEQ, Richland Creek WS SCS Site 18 Dam plays a key role in protecting the surrounding areas from potential inundation. Although the hazard potential is deemed as "Not Available" and the condition assessment remains "Not Rated", the risk assessment suggests a high level of risk (2). Despite the lack of specific details on emergency action plans and maintenance records, the dam continues to function as a critical infrastructure for flood control in the region, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and upkeep to ensure its effectiveness in the face of changing climate patterns and water resource demands.

In conclusion, Richland Creek WS SCS Site 18 Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between federal agencies, local governments, and design specialists in addressing flood risks and safeguarding water resources in Texas. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding the intricacies of this dam's design, purpose, and operational considerations sheds light on the interconnected relationship between infrastructure development and climate resilience. Moving forward, continued investment in dam safety and maintenance will be essential to uphold the integrity of structures like Richland Creek WS SCS Site 18 Dam and maintain effective water management practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

1772

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

TR-ELM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18.9

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

1.06

Nid Storage

615

Structural Height

29

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

29
       
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.