Tumco Dam L-3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tumco Dam L-3, located in Titus County, Texas, was completed in 1996 with a primary purpose of storing tailings.


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Summary

This privately-owned earth dam, with a maximum storage capacity of 68 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 45 acre-feet, stands at a height of 8 feet and spans 4 feet in length. Situated on Hayes Creek, the dam serves as a crucial structure for water resource management in the area, providing irrigation and flood control benefits to the local community.

Despite its small size, Tumco Dam L-3 poses a high risk due to its condition assessment being rated as 'Not Rated'. With no spillway and limited inspection data available, there are potential safety concerns associated with the dam. While it has not been regulated by the state, the dam does have permitting and inspection requirements in place, indicating a level of oversight for its operation. Additionally, the dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and updated emergency contacts, highlighting the need for improved risk management measures.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the unique design and operational characteristics of Tumco Dam L-3 offer an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure. With its modest size and specific purpose for tailings storage, the dam exemplifies the diverse range of water management systems in place across the country. As stakeholders continue to assess and address the risks associated with aging dams, Tumco Dam L-3 serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

4

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

HAYES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

303

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

68

Outlet Gates

None - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

8
       
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.