Clifton Maddox Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Clifton Maddox is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Covington, Alabama, near Watkins Bridge.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam, completed in 1960 by the USDA NRCS, stands at a height of 12 feet and has a length of 450 feet, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Clifton Maddox is to support fish and wildlife habitat, with secondary recreational benefits for the local community.

Despite its low hazard potential, Clifton Maddox poses a moderate risk (rated 3 out of 5) due to its location on TR Poplar Creek in the Mobile District of Alabama. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 65 feet, capable of discharging up to 120 cubic feet per second. While the dam's condition is currently unrated, there are no state regulatory inspections or enforcement in place for this structure. Overall, Clifton Maddox serves as a valuable resource for water conservation and wildlife preservation in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate the unique features and historical significance of Clifton Maddox. The dam's construction by the USDA NRCS reflects a commitment to sustainable land management and ecosystem conservation. With its focus on fish and wildlife habitat, the dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and environmental stewardship. As a private entity, Clifton Maddox represents a grassroots effort to enhance local biodiversity and recreational opportunities, showcasing the importance of community-led initiatives in water resource management.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR POPLAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

70

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.