Harper No 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Harper No 1 is a privately owned dam located in Calhoun, Alabama, along the TR Cottaquilla Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 13 feet and has a hydraulic height of 11 feet. The dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet of water.

Despite its low hazard potential, Harper No 1 has not been rated for its condition assessment. The dam has not been inspected in recent years and lacks emergency action plans that meet established guidelines. Although the dam has not undergone any modifications or enhancements since its completion, it is crucial for the responsible authorities to prioritize regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of this water resource structure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the condition and management of dams like Harper No 1 to mitigate potential risks and protect surrounding communities and ecosystems. With an understanding of the dam's history, purpose, and current status, stakeholders can advocate for improved safety measures and emergency preparedness to safeguard against any unforeseen events that may impact the dam and its downstream areas.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

750

River Or Stream

TR COTTAQUILA CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

11

Nid Storage

75

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.