Ball Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ball Dam, located on Spring Creek in Irion County, Texas, is a private irrigation dam with a primary purpose of providing water for agricultural use.


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Summary

Built in 1925, this Buttress type dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a length of 280 feet, with a storage capacity of 82 acre-feet. The dam does not have a spillway and is not regulated by the state.

Despite its age, Ball Dam is still in good condition and has a high risk assessment rating of 2. It does not have an Emergency Action Plan in place or updated inundation maps, but it meets the state's inspection and permitting requirements. The dam serves as a key water resource for the surrounding area, supporting irrigation needs and contributing to the local agricultural economy.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and functional importance of Ball Dam in providing water for irrigation in the region. As a privately owned structure, the dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities and maintaining water resources for the community. With its unique design and high risk assessment, Ball Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water management and infrastructure in sustaining agricultural operations in Texas.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Hydraulic Height

8

Drainage Area

12

Nid Storage

82

Structural Height

8

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.