Elm Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Elm Lake Dam, located in McLennan, Texas, was completed in 1957 and serves as a vital water supply structure for the region.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet, primarily used for water supply purposes. Situated on the TR-SHAW CREEK, this dam has a structural length of 900 feet and covers a surface area of 10 acres.

With a buttress core type and no spillway, Elm Lake Dam is designed to efficiently store and distribute water to meet the community's needs. Despite its high hazard potential and a lack of condition assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition. Although it is not regulated by the state, regular inspections and state permitting ensure its safety and functionality. In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) is prepared, meeting guidelines and providing necessary contact information.

Overall, Elm Lake Dam stands as a crucial infrastructure for water supply in the area, despite its risk assessment being high. With no associated structures and minimal federal involvement, the dam remains a key player in managing water resources and ensuring the community's water needs are met efficiently and effectively.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TR-SHAW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

115

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
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.