Big Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Big Pond Dam, located in Hardeman, Texas, was completed in 1951 and stands at a height of 22 feet with a length of 300 feet.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Devils Creek, the dam is owned and regulated by the state of Texas, with oversight from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

Despite being categorized as having a high risk potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, and there is limited data available on its maintenance and emergency preparedness measures. The dam does not have a spillway and is equipped with one outlet gate. As a buttress core dam, Big Pond Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region, albeit with some associated risk factors that warrant continued monitoring and assessment by regulatory authorities.

With its picturesque setting and essential role in providing recreational opportunities, Big Pond Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resources and climate considerations. As enthusiasts continue to appreciate the beauty and functionality of this dam, ongoing efforts to ensure its safety and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions will be key in preserving its value for future generations.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-DEVILS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

22

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

22
       
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.