Helms Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Helms Lake Dam, located in Hall County, Texas, was completed in 1960 and serves as an essential water supply source in the region.
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Summary
This private earth dam stands at a structural height of 29 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 267 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of water supply, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources for the surrounding area.
Despite its importance, Helms Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and there is limited information available on its hazard potential. However, the risk assessment has been classified as high, with a risk level of 2. The dam does not have a spillway and is equipped with one outlet gate. While there have been no reported incidents or issues with the dam to date, regular inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure its continued functionality and safety.
The dam is situated on the TR-Jonah Creek, within the jurisdiction of the Tulsa District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Its designer is listed as "NO DATA FOR ORIGINAL DESIGNER," and it is not regulated by the state. With its unique buttress core type and unlisted foundation, Helms Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and infrastructure in the face of changing climates and growing water demands.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
359 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
TR-JONAH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
267 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Big Sandy Creek Watershed S-17