Hobbie Lee Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hobbie Lee is a private recreational dam located in Smuteye, Alabama, along the Big Sandy Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1947, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 13 feet and a hydraulic height of 11 feet, with a length of 500 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 560 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Hobbie Lee is deemed to have a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition.

While Hobbie Lee serves primarily for recreation, it also contributes to the conservation of water resources in the area. Situated in Bullock County, Alabama, this dam offers opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife habitat preservation. With its location in the Mobile District and Congressional District 02 of Alabama, Hobbie Lee represents a harmonious blend of human enjoyment and environmental stewardship. As a water resource and climate enthusiast, exploring the dynamics of this dam can provide valuable insights into sustainable water management practices.

As an enthusiast interested in the intersection of water resources and climate, delving into the details of Hobbie Lee can unveil the intricate balance between human-made structures and natural ecosystems. From its design and construction to its recreational purposes and regulatory aspects, Hobbie Lee stands as a testament to the enduring relationship between society and the environment. By understanding the history and features of this dam, one can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of managing water resources in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

500

River Or Stream

BIG SANDY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

75

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
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.