Chambers Creek Ws Scs Site 117 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chambers Creek WS SCS Site 117 Dam in Ellis County, Texas, is a vital structure designed by USDA NRCS to mitigate flood risks along Elm Branch.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at 21 feet tall and spans 2555 feet, providing significant flood risk reduction benefits to the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 291 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 5700 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and debris control during heavy rainfall events.

Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Chambers Creek WS SCS Site 117 Dam is a key component of the region's water resource infrastructure. While the dam's hazard potential is not available and its condition assessment is not rated, its risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk (3). Equipped with uncontrolled spillways and four outlet gates, the dam ensures efficient water release and enhances downstream safety. Despite lacking detailed information on emergency action plans and risk management measures, the dam's presence underscores the importance of proactive flood control strategies in a changing climate.

Situated within the Fort Worth District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Chambers Creek WS SCS Site 117 Dam exemplifies collaborative efforts between federal, state, and local agencies to safeguard communities from flooding impacts. Its location, design, and operational features reflect a commitment to enhancing water resilience and protecting downstream areas from potential inundation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Chambers Creek WS SCS Site 117 Dam is crucial for appreciating the interconnectedness of water management and climate adaptation efforts in a dynamic environment.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

2555

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

ELM BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

21

Drainage Area

3.47

Nid Storage

1611

Structural Height

21

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 4

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

21
       
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.