Big Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Lake Dam, located in Atascosa, Texas, on the TR-METATE CREEK, serves as a vital water supply structure in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1968, this private earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet and has a length of 900 feet, with a storage capacity of 352 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, highlighting the need for further inspection and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality.

Although Big Lake Dam does not have a spillway, it is equipped with a single outlet gate for water control. The dam poses a high risk, with a hazard potential that is not available at the moment. The risk assessment categorizes it as high, indicating potential concerns that need to be addressed. As a non-federally owned structure, the responsibility for oversight and maintenance falls on the private owner, emphasizing the importance of proper management to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam.

In the absence of detailed risk management measures and emergency action plans, there is a pressing need for proactive steps to safeguard Big Lake Dam and the surrounding community. With a risk level of 2 out of 5, it is essential for the owners to prioritize regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to ensure the safety and reliability of this critical water resource infrastructure in Texas.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-METATE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

352

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.