Big Dam Tank Reservoir Report
Nearby: Curry Lake Dam Mccaleb Pond Dam No 2
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Big Dam Tank is a privately owned earth dam located in Oldham, Texas, built in 1965 on TR-Las Arches Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 30 feet and a length of 1000 feet, it has a storage capacity of 144 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 6 acres. Despite its non-existent spillway, the dam serves a primary purpose of 'Other' and is classified as a high-risk structure with a hazard potential that is not currently rated.
Although the dam's condition assessment is listed as 'Not Rated', it undergoes regular state inspections and permitting, ensuring that it meets safety standards. The area is represented by Congressman Mac Thornberry and falls under the jurisdiction of the Albuquerque District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With no federal agency ownership or funding, the dam stands as a crucial water resource in the region, providing essential water storage for agricultural and environmental needs.
Water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates can appreciate the significance of Big Dam Tank in Texas, both for its historical importance and its vital role in water management. As a privately owned structure with a high-risk designation, efforts to ensure its safety and maintenance are crucial to safeguarding the surrounding community and ecosystem. The dam's presence on TR-Las Arches Creek highlights the intersection of human infrastructure and natural resources, underscoring the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change and increasing water scarcity.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LAS ARCHES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
144 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Outlet Gates |
None - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Not Available |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
30 |
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 Dam Tank