Killingsworth Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Watkins Lake Dam Bagwell Lake
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Killingsworth Lake Dam, located in Bethlehem Church, Alabama, is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1967 by USDA NRCS, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 31 feet and stretches 470 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 374 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 296 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 28 acres.
With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Killingsworth Lake Dam poses significant safety concerns. Despite not being state-regulated or inspected, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and location along the TR Sipsey River make it a critical structure to monitor for potential risks of failure. As a popular recreational spot, the dam's safety and maintenance are essential for ensuring the protection of surrounding communities and the environment.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts should pay close attention to Killingsworth Lake Dam for its recreational significance, engineering design, and potential risks. As a privately owned structure with limited oversight, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections, maintenance, and emergency preparedness to mitigate the hazards associated with high-risk dams in the region. The collaboration between federal and state agencies, as well as the local community, is crucial for ensuring the safety and resilience of this important water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR SIPSEY RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
28 |
Drainage Area |
1.15 |
Nid Storage |
374 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
Killingsworth Lake Dam