Elba Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sam Sawyer Lake Forest Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Coffee, Alabama, Elba is a privately owned hydroelectric dam on the Pea River, managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
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Summary
Built in 1922, this gravity dam stands at a height of 29 feet and serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. With a storage capacity of 950 acre-feet and a surface area of 95 acres, Elba plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential, Elba undergoes regular inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 310 feet and a drainage area of 1,120 square miles. With its scenic location and historical significance, Elba continues to be a point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. Its moderate risk assessment highlights the importance of ongoing maintenance and risk management measures to ensure its continued operation and safety for the surrounding community.
Overall, Elba serves as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, renewable energy generation, and recreational opportunities. As a key feature on the Pea River, this gravity dam stands as a historic landmark in Coffee, Alabama, and plays a vital role in the local ecosystem. With its unique design and purpose, Elba remains a fascinating site for those interested in the impact of dams on water resources and climate in the region.
Year Completed |
1922 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
Pea River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
95 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
1120 |
Nid Storage |
950 |
Structural Height |
39 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Little Double Bridges Creek Nr Enterprise
|
10cfs |
Conecuh River At Brantley Al
|
482cfs |
Pea River Near Samson Al
|
1490cfs |
Choctawhatchee River Near Bellwood Al
|
1050cfs |
Pea River Near Ariton Al
|
860cfs |
Patsaliga Creek Near Brantley Al
|
402cfs |
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.
Elba