Yahou Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Yahou, also known as Yahou Lake, is a federal-owned water resource located in Calhoun, Alabama.


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Summary

Built in 1967, this Earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and stands at a hydraulic height of 34 feet, with a structural height of 41 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 259 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 15 acres, drawing water from the Remount Creek in Fort McClellan.

Despite its small size, Yahou poses a potential hazard classified as high, with a moderate risk assessment of 3. The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 25 feet, and while it has not been rated for its condition, it has not been inspected in recent years. The surrounding area, with a drainage area of 380 acres, may be at risk in case of a breach or structural failure, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring for this water resource.

Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate change will find Yahou an intriguing case study, given its unique features and potential risks. With its remote location in a federal-owned property and its proximity to a river, Yahou serves as a valuable example of the importance of proper management and assessment of dams to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the preservation of natural resources in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

REMOUNT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

380

Nid Storage

259

Structural Height

41

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

41
       
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.