Big Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Lake Dam, located in Henderson, Texas, along the Little Alder Creek, was completed in 1949 and stands at a height of 24 feet with a length of 630 feet.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

It serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 40 acres and a normal storage capacity of 216 acre-feet. The dam, designed by VELVIN & WEEKS, is classified as an earth dam with a buttress core type.

Despite being a private-owned structure, Big Lake Dam is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and undergoes state inspections and enforcement. The spillway, with a width of 125 feet, is uncontrolled and has three outlet gates. The risk assessment for the dam is rated as moderate (3), indicating a moderate level of risk associated with the structure.

While the hazard potential and condition assessment for Big Lake Dam are not available, it remains a significant feature in the area for both water resource and climate enthusiasts. With its picturesque location and recreational offerings, the dam continues to be a popular destination for outdoor activities and serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community.

Years Modified

1994 - Other

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

630

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

LITTLE ALDER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

40

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

2.27

Nid Storage

685

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.