Paul Rigsby Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in the picturesque Beulah Church Community in Cullman, Alabama, the Paul Rigsby Dam, also known as the Darrell Parker Dam, stands as a testament to private ownership and stewardship of water resources.


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Summary

Constructed in 1952, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, creating a stock pond, and providing a habitat for small fish. With a hydraulic height of 28 feet and a structural height of 30 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 150 acre-feet, making it a significant water management structure in the area.

Managed by private owners, the Paul Rigsby Dam on Rock Creek is a vital resource for the local community, offering recreational opportunities alongside its primary functions. Despite its age, the dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, highlighting the need for regular inspections and potential risk management measures. With Congressman Robert B. Aderholt representing the area in Congressional District 04, the dam remains a symbol of sustainable water resource management in Alabama.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricate details of the Paul Rigsby Dam, its historical significance and functional importance come to the forefront. While not currently rated for its condition, the dam's role in fire protection and ecosystem support underscores the crucial balance between human needs and environmental stewardship. With a rich history dating back to the 1950s, this privately owned structure on Rock Creek continues to play a vital role in water management efforts in Cullman County, Alabama.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

675

River Or Stream

ROCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

150

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

30
       
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.