Lafayette City Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lafayette City Lake, located in Chambers County, Alabama, is a picturesque reservoir constructed in 1955 by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of water supply.


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Summary

The lake, also known as City Lake, spans an area of 80 acres with a maximum storage capacity of 888 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 405 acre-feet. It is fed by Finley Creek and serves as a vital water resource for the local community.

With a dam height of 20 feet and a length of 650 feet, Lafayette City Lake is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 115 feet to manage excess water flow. The reservoir has a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, emphasizing the importance of proper risk management measures. Despite not being state-regulated or inspected, the lake continues to play a crucial role in providing water supply to the surrounding area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lafayette City Lake offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. As a key water source in the region, this reservoir stands as a testament to the ingenuity and necessity of sustainable water management practices in ensuring a reliable and safe supply for the community.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

FINLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

80

Drainage Area

6.25

Nid Storage

888

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
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.