Big Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Flag Branch Lake Dam Polnac Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Lake Dam, located on the East Bosque River in Bosque, Texas, was completed in 1948 by designers Childress and Recer.
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Summary
This private dam stands at a height of 54 feet and spans 940 feet, primarily serving the purpose of irrigation. With a storage capacity of 4,272 acre-feet, Big Lake Dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region.
Although the dam has not been inspected since May 1982, it is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements. With a hazard potential that is not available but a high risk assessment rating of 2, it is essential for authorities to prioritize regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of Big Lake Dam. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of this structure in managing water resources for irrigation purposes while also understanding the importance of ongoing risk management measures to prevent potential hazards.
Overall, Big Lake Dam is a key infrastructure in the Fort Worth District, serving the community by providing water for irrigation while also posing certain risks that require careful monitoring and management. With its earth dam construction and buttress core type, this dam contributes to the sustainability of agriculture in the region. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, it is important to recognize the vital role that structures like Big Lake Dam play in managing water supply and supporting local economies, while also acknowledging the need for continued oversight and maintenance to ensure their long-term effectiveness and safety.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
940 |
Dam Height |
54 |
River Or Stream |
EAST BOSQUE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
54 |
Nid Storage |
4272 |
Structural Height |
54 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
54 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Paluxy Rv At Glen Rose
|
10cfs |
N Bosque Rv At Hico
|
6cfs |
Brazos Rv Nr Glen Rose
|
31cfs |
Brazos Rv Ds Lk Granbury Nr Granbury
|
15cfs |
Leon Rv Nr Hamilton
|
4cfs |
N Bosque Rv Nr Clifton
|
28cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Big Lake Dam