Red Draw Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Big Spring, Texas, the Red Draw Dam is a crucial structure that helps manage water resources in the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1985 by design firm FREESE AND NICHOLS, this earth dam stands at a height of 72 feet and stretches 1600 feet in length. It serves as a key component in regulating the flow of the Red Draw tributary of Beals Creek, with a storage capacity of 11,422 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 8,538 acre-feet.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the Red Draw Dam has been deemed to have a fair condition assessment as of April 2021. With a moderate risk level, the dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 450 feet and is inspected every 5 years. While the dam's hazard potential is not available, it plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from flooding and ensuring a stable water supply for the community.

As a significant piece of infrastructure in the region, the Red Draw Dam showcases the importance of proper water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location and design features, this dam serves as a testament to the proactive measures taken by local governments to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the sustainability of water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

1600

Dam Height

72

River Or Stream

RED DRAW TRIBUTARY OF BEALS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

326

Hydraulic Height

72

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

11422

Structural Height

72

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

72
       
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.