Clay Bassett Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wayne Rascoe Pond Wade H Odom Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Clay Bassett, located in Mobile, Alabama, is a privately owned dam constructed in 1966 for offstream storage of Bennetts Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 25 feet, this earth-type dam spans 400 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Clay Bassett serves a primary purpose of "Other" and is not regulated or permitted by the state of Alabama.
Despite its unregulated status, Clay Bassett plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area, offering a maximum discharge of 1000 cubic feet per second and a normal storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. Its location in Congressional District 01, Alabama, under the representation of Bradley Byrne (R), underscores its importance in the local infrastructure. The dam has not been subject to any modifications or inspections in recent years, but its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unspecified.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Clay Bassett presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned dam in Alabama with significant storage capacity and hydraulic capabilities. Its historical construction in 1966 and ongoing operation without state regulation raise questions about oversight and maintenance practices in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the role of dams like Clay Bassett in mitigating floods and managing water flow becomes increasingly important for sustainable development and environmental resilience.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
400 |
River Or Stream |
BENNETTS CREEK-OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
90 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Clay Bassett
Begins Approximately 2 River Miles Downstream From The Yellowhouse Branch Confluence With The Escatawpa River Near The Town Of Deer Park, Alabama
To Ends Approximately 1 River Mile Upstream From The U.S. Highway 98 Bridge