Elm Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Elm Lake Dam, located in Fort Bend, Texas, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond.


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Summary

Completed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and stretches 6400 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 865 acre-feet, Elm Lake Dam provides essential water resources for the surrounding area.

Despite its modest size, Elm Lake Dam poses a high risk due to its condition assessment being not rated. The dam lacks a spillway and is equipped with only one outlet gate. With its proximity to the CH-Big Creek, Elm Lake Dam is crucial for maintaining water levels for fish and wildlife habitats, as well as for recreational activities. Climate and water resource enthusiasts may find Elm Lake Dam to be a focal point of interest, given its significance in supporting local ecosystems and water management efforts in the region.

As a state-owned structure, Elm Lake Dam falls under the regulatory oversight of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). While its hazard potential and condition assessment may raise concerns, efforts to mitigate risks and ensure proper maintenance are essential for the continued functionality and safety of the dam. With its historical significance and role in supporting wildlife and recreational activities, Elm Lake Dam remains a crucial component of the water resource infrastructure in Fort Bend, Texas.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

6400

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

OFF CH-BIG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

8

Nid Storage

865

Structural Height

8

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.