Mc Gowin Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Mc Gowin is a privately owned dam located in Butler, Alabama, specifically in the city of East Chapman.
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Summary
Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 15 feet, with a hydraulic height of 14 feet and a length of 520 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, providing a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 26 cubic feet per second. Although not rated for condition assessment, its hazard potential is deemed significant.
Situated along Brushy Creek, Mc Gowin serves as a vital water resource in the region, offering recreational opportunities while also contributing to the local ecosystem. The dam's location within the Mobile District adds to its importance within the larger water management system in Alabama. With no state jurisdiction or permitting, Mc Gowin continues to operate without any major regulatory oversight, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity.
As a key element in the water infrastructure of Alabama, Mc Gowin plays a crucial role in providing water storage and recreational benefits to the local community. However, its significant hazard potential underscores the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures to safeguard against potential failures. With its historical significance dating back to the 1950s, Mc Gowin remains a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in understanding the intersection of infrastructure, recreation, and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
520 |
River Or Stream |
BRUSHY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sepulga River Near Mckenzie Al
|
169cfs |
Patsaliga Creek Near Brantley Al
|
402cfs |
Conecuh River Bel Pt A Dam Nr River Falls
|
1740cfs |
Conecuh River At River Falls
|
1730cfs |
Murder Creek Near Evergreen Al
|
253cfs |
Conecuh River At Brantley Al
|
482cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Mc Gowin