Ray Roberts Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mccallum Lake Dam Evans Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ray Roberts Dam, located in Denton, Texas, along the Elm Fork of the Trinity River, was completed in 1986 by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
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Summary
The dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, recreation, water supply, and fish and wildlife management. Standing at a height of 141 feet and a length of 14,980 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1,931,900 acre-feet and a surface area of 29,350 acres. While it significantly reduces the risk of flooding to downstream communities, the dam does not eliminate the risk entirely. In rare, severe storm events, high surcharge releases could potentially impact areas such as Lewisville, Coppell, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Irving, and Dallas.
A risk assessment conducted in 2019 classified the risk associated with Ray Roberts Dam as moderate, driven by the potential of an extremely unlikely flood event that could lead to a breach. In such a scenario, areas including Denton, Lewisville, and Dallas could face significant economic loss and damages. To mitigate risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers continuously works with local emergency managers to update evacuation plans, conduct emergency exercises, and implement risk reduction measures such as regular dam inspections, maintenance, and repairs. Despite the potential consequences of a breach, the dam's emergency action plan and collaboration with local authorities aim to minimize the impact on communities downstream.
Overall, Ray Roberts Dam plays a vital role in flood risk reduction and water resource management in the region. Through proactive risk management measures and ongoing assessments, the US Army Corps of Engineers ensures the dam's structural integrity and the safety of surrounding communities. While challenges exist, the dam's functionality and collaboration with local stakeholders demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding the environment and public safety in the face of potential natural disasters.
Year Completed |
1986 |
Dam Length |
14980 |
Dam Height |
141 |
River Or Stream |
ELM FORK OF THE TRINITY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
29350 |
Hydraulic Height |
136 |
Drainage Area |
692 |
Nid Storage |
1931900 |
Structural Height |
141 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
141 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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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