Big Sky Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Big Sky Dam, located in Denton, Texas, is a privately owned dam that plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.


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Summary

With a height of 20 feet and a length of 500 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 64.7 acre-feet, serving as a vital water source for the region. The dam is situated on a tributary of Denton Creek and is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), ensuring its compliance with state regulations.

This dam features an uncontrolled spillway with three outlet gates, allowing for a maximum discharge of 3 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's condition has not been officially rated, and its emergency action plan (EAP) status remains unknown. The dam's primary purpose and construction details are unspecified, but it continues to provide essential water storage and management functions for the local community. As a significant structure in the area, Big Sky Dam contributes to the sustainable utilization of water resources and plays a vital role in managing the impacts of climate change on water availability.

In the context of increasing climate variability and the importance of water resource management, Big Sky Dam stands as a key infrastructure element in Denton, Texas. While its condition assessment and emergency preparedness may need further evaluation, the dam's role in storing water and providing flood control measures is essential for the surrounding area. By understanding the nuances of this dam's design, purpose, and regulatory oversight, water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the vital role that Big Sky Dam plays in the local ecosystem and water management efforts.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF DENTON CREEK

Surface Area

5.36

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

0.77

Nid Storage

64.7

Structural Height

20

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 3

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Nid Height

20
       
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.