Dennie Shelton Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dennie Shelton Lake Dam, located in Mills County, Texas, was completed in 1975 and serves as a vital water supply source for the region.


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Summary

The primary purpose of this earth dam, with a height of 30 feet and length of 1153 feet, is to store water for various uses, including irrigation and domestic consumption. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the state and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.

With a maximum storage capacity of 400 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 260 acre-feet, Dennie Shelton Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. While the dam does not have a spillway, it is equipped with one outlet gate for controlled water release. The risk assessment for this dam is classified as high, highlighting the importance of proper maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding communities and infrastructure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Dennie Shelton Lake Dam represents a significant engineering feat in water management. Its role in providing essential water supply services, combined with the ongoing risk assessment and management efforts, underscores the importance of sustainable water infrastructure development in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing water demand. As a key player in the regional water supply network, this dam serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of water resources and the need for proactive measures to safeguard our water supply for future generations.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

1153

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

HERD PEN BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

400

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

30
       
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.