Little Elm And Laterals Ws Scs Site 18a Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Little Elm and Laterals WS SCS Site 18a Dam, located in Collin County, Texas, serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure along the TR-Little Elm Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and stretches 1446 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 779 acre-feet, it provides essential flood protection for the surrounding area.

Managed by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and overall condition. Despite being classified as fair in its last assessment in 2015, the dam has a moderate risk rating of 3 due to its age and potential hazards. The spillway width of 102 feet allows for controlled water release during periods of high discharge, reducing the risk of overflow and downstream flooding.

With a history of modifications in 2008 and a designated emergency action plan, the Little Elm and Laterals WS SCS Site 18a Dam remains a crucial piece of infrastructure for flood management in the region. Its strategic design and maintenance efforts underscore the importance of proactive water resource management in mitigating climate-related risks and protecting communities from potential disasters.

Years Modified

2008 - Other

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1446

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE ELM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

1.05

Nid Storage

779

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1, Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

38
       
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.