Elkins Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Elkins Lake Dam, located in Garland, Texas, is a private earth dam completed in 1960 for the primary purposes of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 12 feet with a length of 422 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and a normal storage of 50 acre-feet. It serves as a crucial water resource for the area, particularly for fire protection and recreational use.

The dam, situated on TR-Young Creek, is owned and managed by private entities, with no state regulation or enforcement. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is not rated, highlighting the need for regular inspections and maintenance. With no spillway and limited associated structures, the dam poses a potential risk to the surrounding community, prompting the need for a comprehensive emergency action plan and risk management measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Elkins Lake Dam represents both a valuable asset and a potential risk to the local ecosystem. As an earth dam with limited regulatory oversight, its maintenance and safety measures are crucial for ensuring the continued availability of water resources and protecting against potential hazards. Monitoring the dam's condition, implementing risk management strategies, and preparing for potential emergencies are essential steps in safeguarding the community and the environment.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

422

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-YOUNG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

110

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

12
       
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.