Elkins Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Elkins Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 31 ft (taller than 70.6% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 1,170 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 760 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 85 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 15,867 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | TX02956 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
ELKINS LAKE RECREATION CORPORATION
Private
Nearby Dams
Azalea Lake Dam
Walker, TX
Low Hazard 20 ftCamellia Lake Dam
Walker, TX
Low Hazard 16 ftBaldwin Dam
Walker, TX
High Hazard 20 ftSpring Lake Dam
Walker, TX
High Hazard 24 ftHeath Branch Fishing Club Lake Dam
Walker, TX
High Hazard 21 ftDawson Lake Dam
Walker, TX
High Hazard 21 ftMitcham Lake Dam
Walker, TX
Low Hazard 16 ftWilley Lake Dam
Walker, TX
Low Hazard 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Elkins Lake Dam?
Elkins Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Elkins Lake Dam?
Elkins Lake Dam is owned by ELKINS LAKE RECREATION CORPORATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Elkins Lake Dam built?
Elkins Lake Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Elkins Lake Dam?
Elkins Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Elkins Lake Dam?
Elkins Lake Dam has a dam height of 31 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Elkins Lake Dam last inspected?
Elkins Lake Dam was last inspected on May 18, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.