Emerson Dam No 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Emerson Dam No 1, located in Freestone, Texas, is a privately owned Earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 16 feet and a length of 500 feet, this structure was completed in 1972 and has a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. The dam, situated on TR-TEHUACANA CREEK, is monitored by the state with regular inspections conducted to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite being classified as having a high risk potential, the condition of Emerson Dam No 1 is currently not rated, with the last inspection taking place in 1973. The dam does not have a spillway and only has one outlet gate. While it poses a certain level of risk, the dam continues to serve its purpose in providing water for irrigation in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the status of dams like Emerson Dam No 1 is crucial for understanding the impact of these structures on the environment and local communities.

With its history dating back to the early 1970s, Emerson Dam No 1 serves as a vital infrastructure for irrigation in the area. While the dam's risk potential is noted as high, continuous monitoring and inspection efforts are in place to mitigate any potential hazards. As enthusiasts in water resource management and climate change, it is important to recognize the significance of structures like Emerson Dam No 1 in sustaining water supply for agricultural needs in the region.

Year Completed

1972

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

TR-TEHUACANA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

62

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.