The Midlothian Balancing Reservoir Dam, located in Ellis County, Texas, is a crucial water resource infrastructure owned by the local government and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).
Wind
Humidity
With a dam height of 34 feet and a storage capacity of 1,654 acre-feet, this buttress dam serves a primary purpose other than flood control or water supply, making it unique in its design and function.
Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, the dam poses a high risk (2) according to the Hazard Potential and Risk Assessment criteria. The absence of a spillway and limited information on its construction year and other structural details raise questions about its resilience to extreme weather events and the potential impact on surrounding areas in case of a dam failure. As climate change continues to amplify the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the importance of maintaining and upgrading such critical infrastructure becomes increasingly evident.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Midlothian Balancing Reservoir Dam presents an intriguing case study of a lesser-known dam type and its role in managing water resources in a changing climate. With a focus on risk management and resilience, further investigation into the dam's design, construction history, and emergency preparedness plans can provide valuable insights into how similar structures can adapt to climate challenges and ensure the safety and security of communities relying on them for water supply and flood control.
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
|
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Nid Storage |
1654 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
34 |