Tonn Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Tonn Lake Dam, located in Washington County, Texas, is a private earth dam built in 1965 primarily for irrigation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 21 feet, with a structural height of 22 feet and a length of 450 feet, this dam serves as a crucial water resource for the area. It has a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet, with 60 acre-feet designated for normal storage.

Despite not having a spillway, Tonn Lake Dam plays a vital role in water management for the region, especially in times of high demand. The dam is situated on TR-Little Sandy Creek and falls under the jurisdiction of the Galveston District. Although it is not state-regulated, the dam undergoes regular inspections and is deemed to have a high risk potential, signaling the importance of proper maintenance and risk management measures.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Tonn Lake Dam to be an intriguing structure, showcasing the intersection of human intervention in natural water systems. With its history dating back to the mid-20th century and its continued role in supporting irrigation and recreation activities, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing water for human use and preserving the ecological integrity of the surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

TR-LITTLE SANDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

84

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.