Tdcj Ellis Unit Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tdcj Ellis Unit Dam, located in Walker County, Texas, was completed in 1964 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 32 feet and a length of 3940 feet, has a maximum storage capacity of 696 acre-feet and a normal storage of 280 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam remains in moderate risk condition according to the data provided, with an uncontrolled spillway and three outlet gates.

The dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes state inspection and enforcement. However, the last inspection date listed was in 1983, raising questions about the current condition and maintenance of the structure. With a hazard potential that is not available and a condition assessment that is not rated, it is essential for water resource and climate enthusiasts to advocate for updated assessments and risk management measures to ensure the safety and functionality of Tdcj Ellis Unit Dam in the face of potential climate challenges.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

3940

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

OFF CH-TURKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

32

Nid Storage

696

Structural Height

32

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

32
       
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.