Big Torra Tank Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Goodnight Tank Dam Antelope Tank Dam
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Big Torra Tank Dam, located in Oldham, Texas, is a private earth dam completed in 1960 with a primary purpose of fire protection, stock, or small fish pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Standing at a height of 48 feet and a length of 730 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 384 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10 acres. Although it does not have a spillway, it is equipped with one outlet gate.
Despite its age, Big Torra Tank Dam is still in good condition and has not been rated for its current state. However, it has been identified as having a high risk potential (level 2). While it does not have an emergency action plan in place, the dam is regularly inspected and permitted by the state of Texas for both construction and safety measures. With its strategic location on Torrey Canyon Creek, this dam contributes to the local ecosystem by providing essential water resources for fire protection and wildlife habitat.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Torra Tank Dam serves as a vital structure supporting the local community in Oldham, Texas. Its historical significance as a source of water for fire protection and stock, combined with its engineering design as an earth dam, showcases the importance of sustainable water management practices in the region. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam's condition, it stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in ensuring water security for future generations.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
730 |
Dam Height |
48 |
River Or Stream |
TR-TORREY CANYON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
48 |
Nid Storage |
384 |
Structural Height |
48 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
48 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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 Torra Tank Dam