Tatum Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Collin County, Texas, Tatum Dam stands as a testament to early 20th-century engineering, having been completed in 1920.


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Summary

Sitting on Groves Creek, this private earth dam primarily serves recreational purposes, offering a serene setting for visitors to enjoy water-based activities in a picturesque environment. With a height of 25 feet and a length of 650 feet, Tatum Dam provides a storage capacity of 320 acre-feet, making it a valuable resource for the local community.

Despite its historical significance, Tatum Dam is currently rated as being in poor condition, with a moderate risk level assigned to it. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with one valve in place, and with regular inspections required every five years to assess its structural integrity. The dam's hazard potential is not available, but efforts are likely needed to address its current condition and ensure its continued safe operation for both recreational and water management purposes. Given its critical role in the local ecosystem, stakeholders may need to consider potential risk management measures in the near future to safeguard this valuable water resource.

With the TCEQ overseeing its regulatory compliance and maintenance, Tatum Dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of historical infrastructure and environmental conservation. As discussions around dam safety and resilience continue to gain prominence, Tatum Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and risk management in preserving our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

GROVES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13.2

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

320

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.