Big Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Lake Dam, located in Van Zandt County, Texas, is a privately owned structure built in 1959 for irrigation purposes along the TR-Grand Saline Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 24 feet and with a length of 500 feet, this earth dam serves to store water for agricultural use in the region. Despite its age, the dam remains in good condition and is regularly inspected by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to ensure its safety and functionality.

With a storage capacity of 517 acre-feet, Big Lake Dam plays a crucial role in supporting irrigation activities in the area, storing water for agricultural use during dry periods. Although it lacks a spillway, the dam is equipped with outlet gates for controlled water release. The risk assessment for this dam is considered high, indicating the potential for consequences in case of failure, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to mitigate any risks.

While the dam has not been significantly modified since its construction, it continues to provide essential water resources for the surrounding community. As climate change poses challenges to water availability, structures like Big Lake Dam play a vital role in managing and conserving water for sustainable agricultural practices in the region. With proper management and oversight, this dam remains a crucial asset for water resource management in Van Zandt County.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR-GRAND SALINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

517

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None - 1

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.