Ewell C Forbus Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ewell C Forbus is a privately-owned recreational dam located in Coosa, Alabama, near Lake Martin Camps.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1961, this earth-filled dam stands at a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 27 feet, with a length of 425 feet. The primary purpose of this dam is for recreation, providing a storage capacity of 115 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 88 acre-feet.

Managed by the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Ewell C Forbus has been classified as having a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated. Despite its low risk level, the dam has not been inspected recently, and there is no emergency action plan in place. With no associated structures or authorized modifications, the dam serves as a key element in the local water resource system, regulating flow on Oakachoy Creek.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Ewell C Forbus represents a significant recreational infrastructure in Alabama that contributes to the local economy and ecosystem. Its historical significance, engineering design, and potential for future risk mitigation efforts make it a valuable site for further study and conservation efforts.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

425

River Or Stream

TR OAKACHOY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

115

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.