Virginia Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Virginia Lake, located in Clay, Alabama, is a state-owned reservoir primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1951, this earth dam structure has a hydraulic height of 30 feet and a storage capacity of 210 acre-feet. The lake, situated along TR Ketchepedrakee Creek, offers a serene setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

With a significant hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Virginia Lake is a focal point for ongoing monitoring and assessment. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, its emergency action plan status remains unclear, raising questions about preparedness and risk management measures. As part of the Mobile District, the lake is under state jurisdiction with no state regulatory agency overseeing its operations, inspections, or enforcement activities.

Despite its tranquil surroundings and recreational appeal, Virginia Lake poses potential risks that warrant attention and proactive measures to ensure public safety and environmental protection. As climate change impacts continue to shape water resource management strategies, the significance of assessing and addressing the safety and sustainability of reservoirs like Virginia Lake becomes increasingly imperative for the well-being of both the ecosystem and the community it serves.

Year Completed

1951

Dam Length

120

River Or Stream

TR KETCHEPEDRAKEE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

210

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
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.