Elmer Dunnam Reservoir Report
Nearby: C W Gaston J S Dunlap
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Elmer Dunnam, a private dam located in Coosa, Alabama, was completed in 1968 for the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
With a height of 37 feet and a hydraulic height of 28 feet, this earth dam spans 340 feet across the TR Hatchett Creek, providing a storage capacity of 296 acre-feet. The dam is situated in a picturesque location near McEwin Springs, offering water resource and climate enthusiasts a unique opportunity to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.
Despite being privately owned, Elmer Dunnam has a low hazard potential and is not currently regulated or inspected by the state. The dam has not been rated for its condition, but it continues to serve its recreational purpose effectively. Its location within the Mobile District of Alabama also makes it an interesting site for those interested in the state's water resource management and infrastructure.
While Elmer Dunnam may not have the same level of federal oversight as other dams, its historical significance and contribution to local recreation make it a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. With its tranquil setting along the TR Hatchett Creek and its unique design as an earth dam, this privately owned structure offers a glimpse into Alabama's diverse water infrastructure landscape.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
340 |
River Or Stream |
TR HATCHETT CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
296 |
Structural Height |
37 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hatchet Creek Below Rockford Al
|
153cfs |
Hillabee Creek Near Hackneyville Al
|
117cfs |
Tallapoosa River Nr New Site
|
2060cfs |
Coosa River At Childersburg Al
|
283cfs |
Talladega Creek At Alpine Al
|
104cfs |
Kelly Creek Near Vincent Al
|
34cfs |
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.
Elmer Dunnam