Varner Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Varner Lake in Bullock, Alabama, is a private fish and wildlife pond constructed in 1954 by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

This Earth dam, standing at 16 feet tall and 700 feet long, serves as a habitat for various aquatic species and recreational activities. With a storage capacity of 160 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.16 square miles, Varner Lake provides a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy nature.

Despite being unregulated by the state and having a low hazard potential, Varner Lake still poses a moderate risk, as indicated by its risk assessment rating of 3. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 70 feet wide, helps manage water levels during periods of high discharge. The lake's condition remains unrated, and there is no emergency action plan in place, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and assessment to ensure the safety and sustainability of this water resource.

Located near Little Indian Creek in the Mobile District, Varner Lake offers a scenic escape in the heart of Alabama. As a haven for wildlife and a recreational destination, this private waterway serves as a vital ecosystem and a source of enjoyment for those who appreciate the intersection of water resources and climate in the natural world.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

LITTLE INDIAN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.16

Nid Storage

160

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.