Lake Clark Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Clark Dam, located in Ellis, Texas, serves as a vital flood risk reduction structure along the Little Mustang Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1940, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and stretches for 2760 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 3724 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, but it also provides recreational opportunities for the local community.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Lake Clark Dam has undergone modifications in 1980 and 2010 to enhance its structural integrity. With an uncontrolled spillway width of 878 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 11,923 cubic feet per second, the dam is well-equipped to handle high water levels during flood events. Despite its moderate risk rating, the dam's condition remains unrated, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in protecting the surrounding area from flooding.

Years Modified

1980 - Structural, 2010 - Other

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

2760

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

LITTLE MUSTANG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

204

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

2.8

Nid Storage

3724

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

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.