Payne Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Payne Lake in Demopolis, Hale County, Alabama is a captivating destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Managed by the USDA Forest Service, this Federal-owned recreational lake offers a serene escape for outdoor activities. Completed in 1939, the earth dam stands at 22 feet high and spans 1450 feet, providing a storage capacity of 660 acre-feet. The lake is situated on Five Mile Creek and covers a drainage area of 7 square miles, with a maximum discharge of 600 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Payne Lake has been modified in 2018 and is subject to regular inspections by the Forest Service. With a hazard potential rated as high, the lake poses a moderate risk (3) and has not been rated for its condition. The spillway type is uncontrolled, adding an element of natural beauty and unpredictability to the lake's landscape. For those seeking a unique and environmentally rich experience, Payne Lake offers a blend of history, recreation, and potential for exploration in the heart of Alabama's lush countryside.

Years Modified

2018 - Other

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

1450

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

FIVE MILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

7

Nid Storage

660

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

22
       
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.