Russell Mills Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Russell Mills, located in Tallapoosa, Alabama, is a gravity dam that was completed in 1920 for the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Situated on Elkahatchee Creek, this dam has a hydraulic height of 25 feet and a structural height of 27 feet, with a length of 300 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 1300 acre-feet and normal storage of 1100 acre-feet, serving as a low hazard potential structure.

Managed by a private owner, Russell Mills is not regulated or inspected by the state, with no state jurisdiction or permitting requirements. Despite its age, the dam is not currently rated for its condition, and there is no emergency action plan in place. The dam has not undergone any significant modifications over the years and does not have any associated structures or locks. Despite its limited oversight and assessment, Russell Mills remains a key feature in the recreational landscape of Alexander City South, providing opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of Elkahatchee Creek.

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

ELKAHATCHEE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

1300

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
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.