Lake Nolin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Nolin Dam, located in the picturesque Folsom Bridge Community of Coffee, Alabama, holds a significant historical and practical purpose.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this private Earth dam serves as a vital source for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes, while also providing recreational opportunities for local residents. Situated on the TR Cardwell Creek, this dam has a hydraulic height of 7 feet and a structural height of 7 feet, with a length of 896 feet.

With a maximum storage capacity of 53 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 36 acre-feet, Lake Nolin Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Despite its low hazard potential and the absence of state regulation and inspection, this dam remains a key infrastructure for the community's water needs. With a serene surrounding and the potential for outdoor activities, Lake Nolin Dam is a valuable asset for both water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, it continues to provide essential services and recreational opportunities for the local population. With a rich history dating back to its construction in the 1950s, Lake Nolin Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and the role of private infrastructure in meeting community needs. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation and maintenance of structures like Lake Nolin Dam become increasingly crucial for sustainable water management in the region.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

896

River Or Stream

TR CARDWELL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

7

Nid Storage

53

Structural Height

7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

7
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.