Ellison Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Burns Lake Dam Lake Winiwaca Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ellison Lake Dam, located in Milam, Texas, is a private dam designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1963 for multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 25 feet with a length of 918 feet, this Earth dam has a storage capacity of 245 acre-feet and a surface area of 19 acres. Despite lacking a spillway, the dam is equipped with one outlet gate for water control.
Situated on the TR-Brazos River and under the jurisdiction of the Fort Worth District, Ellison Lake Dam poses a high risk due to its condition not being rated, potentially impacting the community in case of an emergency. The dam's hazard potential is currently not available, indicating a need for further assessment and risk management measures. While the dam is not regulated by the state, it is permitted and inspected regularly, emphasizing the importance of its maintenance and upkeep to ensure public safety and water resource sustainability in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ellison Lake Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate infrastructure that supports various activities while highlighting the challenges and responsibilities associated with managing dams. With its unique design and historical significance, this dam serves as a reminder of the vital role that such structures play in enhancing water security and environmental conservation efforts, making it a valuable asset for the community and a subject of interest for those passionate about sustainable resource management.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
918 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BRAZOS RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
245 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Brazos Rv Nr Highbank
|
213cfs |
Little Pond Ck Nr Burlington
|
0cfs |
Big Elm Ck At Sh 77 Nr Cameron
|
940cfs |
N Elm Ck At Rosebud Rd Nr Meeks
|
0cfs |
Little Brazos Rv At Fm 485 Nr Hearne
|
564cfs |
Little Rv At Cameron
|
165cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Ellison Lake Dam