William Phillips Dam At Bedford Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
The William Phillips Dam at Bedford, also known as Phillips Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Lamar, Alabama.
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Summary
Built in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of creating a fish and wildlife pond. With a height of 18 feet and a length of 400 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7 acres. The dam is situated on the Dry Branch stream and is regulated by the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the William Phillips Dam has not been rated for its condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 680 cubic feet per second. It is used for fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreational purposes in addition to its primary function of supporting fish and wildlife. While the dam has not been inspected since June 1979, its risk management measures and emergency preparedness status remain unclear.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find the William Phillips Dam at Bedford to be a fascinating study in sustainable land management and wildlife conservation. This privately owned structure, designed by the USDA NRCS, serves as an important habitat for various aquatic species while also providing recreational opportunities for the local community. With its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, the dam represents a valuable asset in the region's water management infrastructure. Further research and monitoring may be necessary to assess the long-term viability and safety of this essential resource.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
DRY BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
0.06 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Buttahatchee River Nr Aberdeen
|
1100cfs |
Tombigbee River At Aberdeen Lock And Dam
|
949cfs |
Luxapallila Creek Nr Columbus
|
684cfs |
Tombigbee River At Bigbee
|
347cfs |
Tombigbee River Nr Amory
|
3330cfs |
Buttahatchee River Below Hamilton Al
|
219cfs |
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.
William Phillips Dam At Bedford