Big Tank Dam

TR-NUECES RIVER· McMullen, Texas· Built 1956· Earth· 12 ft tall
Low Hazard Irrigation Private

Key Takeaway

Big Tank Dam is classified as low hazard in Texas. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is irrigation.

Physical Details

Dam Height 12 ft (taller than 7.4% in TX)
Dam Length1,170 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage290 acre-ft
Normal Storage160 acre-ft
Surface Area40 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1956 (70 years old)
NID IDTX03028

Safety Information

Low Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: No

Ownership

WL FLOWERS ET AL

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Big Tank Dam?

Big Tank 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 Tank Dam?

Big Tank Dam is owned by WL FLOWERS ET AL (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Big Tank Dam built?

Big Tank Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 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 Tank Dam?

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

How tall is Big Tank Dam?

Big Tank Dam has a dam height of 12 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.

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.