Big Sandy Dam
Key Takeaway
Big Sandy Dam is classified as low hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1910 and is 116 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 33 ft (taller than 74.3% in TX) |
| Dam Length | 1,700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 600 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 180 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 28 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1910 (116 years old) |
| NID ID | TX03723 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
MISSOURI PACIFIC RAILROAD CO
Private
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Low Hazard 25 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Sandy Dam?
Big Sandy Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Sandy Dam?
Big Sandy Dam is owned by MISSOURI PACIFIC RAILROAD CO (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Sandy Dam built?
Big Sandy Dam was completed in 1910, making it 116 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 Sandy Dam?
Big Sandy Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Sandy Dam?
Big Sandy Dam has a dam height of 33 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 Sandy Dam last inspected?
Big Sandy Dam was last inspected on March 19, 1979. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.