Elm Creek Ws Scs Site 38 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Elm Creek WS SCS Site 38 Dam, located in Milam, Texas, is a vital structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the TR-Big Elm Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1989, this earth dam stands at 42 feet high, with a length of 1200 feet, and a storage capacity of 830 acre-feet. Despite its primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the dam also serves as a significant conservation tool in managing water resources within the region.

The dam, constructed with a buttress core type, plays a crucial role in safeguarding the local community from potential hazards associated with flooding events. With a high risk assessment rating of 2, the Elm Creek WS SCS Site 38 Dam is closely monitored and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), ensuring its structural integrity and operational readiness. As part of its risk management approach, the dam has a single outlet gate for controlled water release, minimizing the impact of excess water on downstream areas.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic placement and design of Elm Creek WS SCS Site 38 Dam, as it not only serves as a flood risk reduction measure but also contributes to the overall conservation and management of water in the region. With a focus on safety and sustainability, this dam exemplifies the importance of proactive measures in mitigating the potential impact of natural disasters on local communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1989

Dam Length

1200

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR-BIG ELM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

1.73

Nid Storage

830

Structural Height

42

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

42
       
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.