Emerald Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Emerald Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 29 ft (taller than 64.3% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 875 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 439 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 214 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 27 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 7,470 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | TX00132 |
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
EMERALD LAKES PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION
Private
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Significant Hazard 34 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Emerald Lake Dam?
Emerald 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 Emerald Lake Dam?
Emerald Lake Dam is owned by EMERALD LAKES PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Emerald Lake Dam built?
Emerald Lake Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Emerald Lake Dam?
Emerald Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Emerald Lake Dam?
Emerald Lake Dam has a dam height of 29 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 Emerald Lake Dam last inspected?
Emerald Lake Dam was last inspected on June 16, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.