Big Mesquite Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Big Mesquite Dam, located in Webb County, Texas, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1974 along TR-Los Olmos Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 25 feet with a length of 1700 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 1110 acre-feet and a surface area of 111 acres. While the primary purpose of the dam is listed as 'Other', it serves as a vital resource for water management and storage in the region.
Managed and regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Big Mesquite Dam is subject to state inspection, enforcement, and permitting. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated. With no spillway and a lack of inundation maps prepared, there are concerns regarding the dam's risk management measures. As a key structure in the area, continuous monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure the safety and efficiency of Big Mesquite Dam for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
In the congressional district of Henry Cuellar, Big Mesquite Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a notable history dating back to 1974, this earth dam has been a significant feature along TR-Los Olmos Creek. As efforts continue to assess and mitigate risks associated with the dam, its importance in maintaining water security for the community cannot be understated. For enthusiasts of water resources and climate, the ongoing management and maintenance of Big Mesquite Dam serve as a reminder of the critical role infrastructure plays in sustainable resource management.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
1700 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LOS OLMOS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
111 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
1110 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
San Casimiro Ck Nr Freer
|
0cfs |
Nueces Rv At Cotulla
|
0cfs |
Nueces Rv Nr Tilden
|
0cfs |
Zacate Ck At Laredo
|
0cfs |
Rio Grande At Laredo
|
1760cfs |
Frio Rv At Tilden
|
0cfs |
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 Mesquite Dam