Paynes Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Paynes Dam, also known as Dr.
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Summary
Payne Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Letohatchee, Alabama. Built in 1978 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a length of 1100 feet. The primary purpose of Paynes Dam is to serve as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing essential habitat for various species in the area.
With a storage capacity of 329 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.49 square miles, Paynes Dam plays a crucial role in fire protection, stock management, and recreational activities in the region. While classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is subject to moderate risk, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's infrastructure remains unrated, requiring ongoing assessment to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the surrounding community.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Paynes Dam serves as a vital resource for both humans and wildlife in the area. Its uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk designation highlight the need for proactive risk management measures to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure the long-term sustainability of this important water resource for future generations of water and climate enthusiasts.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG SWAMP CREEK OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.49 |
Nid Storage |
329 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Paynes Dam