Lake Gilmer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Gilmer Dam, located in Upshur County, Texas, serves as a vital water supply source for the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1996, this earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and has a storage capacity of 26,000 acre-feet. The dam spans 2,200 feet and impounds Kelsey Creek, providing water for various purposes including municipal, industrial, and agricultural needs.

Managed by local government authorities and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Lake Gilmer Dam has undergone modifications in 2001 and 2007 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. The dam features a spillway width of 800 feet and is equipped with slide and uncontrolled outlet gates. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and management measures to ensure its safety and functionality in the face of potential hazards.

With a drainage area of 35.6 square miles and a surface area of 895 acres, Lake Gilmer Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the sustainable operation and maintenance of this infrastructure remain paramount to meeting the water demands of the local community and mitigating risks associated with extreme weather events.

Years Modified

2001 - Hydraulic, 2007 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

2200

Dam Height

43

River Or Stream

KELSEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

895

Hydraulic Height

43

Drainage Area

35.6

Nid Storage

26000

Structural Height

43

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Uncontrolled - 2

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

43
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds

Location Reservations Toilets
Lake Gilmer DamCamp Gilmont Preview Camp Gilmont
Lake Gilmer DamOld Camp Preview Old Camp
Lake Gilmer Damcamp Mabey Preview camp Mabey