Big Woods Spring Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Woods Spring Lake Dam, located in Wood County, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1966 for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 28 feet and has a length of 875 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 1102 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Turkey Creek and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 65 feet and is equipped with two uncontrolled and one valve outlet gates. The condition assessment of the dam conducted in 2014 rated it as fair, with a moderate risk level. Despite its relatively small drainage area of 2.5 square miles, the dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 2900 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area offers 50 acres of surface water for recreational activities, making it a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy nature and outdoor adventures.

While the dam is not owned or funded by any federal agency, it is subject to state jurisdiction and oversight. The dam has undergone modifications in 1997 and is inspected every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With its picturesque location and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, Big Woods Spring Lake Dam serves as a valuable water resource for the community and a prime example of responsible dam management in Texas.

Years Modified

1997 - Other

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

875

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TURKEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

2.5

Nid Storage

1102

Structural Height

28

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.