Big Lake Dam

TR-MAGNUS BRANCH· Tyler, Texas· Built 1949· Earth· 21 ft tall
Significant Hazard Irrigation Recreation Water Supply Private

Key Takeaway

Big Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 years old. Its primary use is irrigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 21 ft (taller than 38.8% in TX)
Dam Length630 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage357 acre-ft
Normal Storage161 acre-ft
Surface Area22 acres
Drainage Area3 sq mi
Max Discharge530 cfs
Year Completed1949 (77 years old)
NID IDTX03753

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 30, 2009
State Regulated: No

Ownership

WILLIAM BAGGETT

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Big Lake Dam?

Big Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Big Lake Dam?

Big Lake Dam is owned by WILLIAM BAGGETT (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Big Lake Dam built?

Big Lake Dam was completed in 1949, making it 77 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Big Lake Dam?

Big Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Irrigation, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Big Lake Dam?

Big Lake Dam has a dam height of 21 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Big Lake Dam last inspected?

Big Lake Dam was last inspected on September 30, 2009. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.