Jerry Mcdaniel Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Malchom Ammons Otis Barfield
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Jerry Mcdaniel Lake Dam, located in Dale County, Alabama, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, with a length of 532 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 107 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 310 cubic feet per second.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." It is not regulated or inspected by the state, and there is no emergency action plan in place. The dam's purpose is solely for recreation, and it sits along TR Ward Creek in the Bethel Church Community. While the risk assessment and management measures for the dam are not specified, its location and design make it an important resource for water enthusiasts interested in exploring the waterways of Alabama.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Jerry Mcdaniel Lake Dam provides a fascinating case study of a privately-owned earth dam with a unique history and purpose. Its unregulated status and lack of state oversight raise questions about its long-term maintenance and potential risks. As a recreational structure in a picturesque setting, the dam offers an opportunity for further exploration and research into the intersection of water management, infrastructure development, and environmental stewardship in the region.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
532 |
River Or Stream |
TR WARD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
107 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Jerry Mcdaniel Lake Dam