Madison County Public Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Madison County Public Lake Dam, located in Gurley, Alabama, is a key structure managed by the USDA NRCS for the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Built in 1958, this Earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 900 feet, allowing for a normal storage capacity of 1712 acre-feet. The dam is situated on a tributary of Hurricane Creek and serves the community by providing a recreational space for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife habitat for various species.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam has a moderate risk assessment due to its age and lack of recent inspections. The spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 100 feet, and the maximum discharge capacity is recorded at 2151 cubic feet per second. While the dam's condition assessment is listed as "Not Rated," there is a need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its long-term functionality and safety. The surrounding area benefits from the dam's presence, but ongoing risk management measures and emergency preparedness are essential to mitigate any potential issues in the future.

Overall, Madison County Public Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for both water conservation and recreational activities in the region. With a focus on fish and wildlife preservation, the dam contributes to the local ecosystem while offering opportunities for outdoor enjoyment. As climate and water resource enthusiasts, it is crucial to stay informed about the condition and management of such structures to ensure their continued effectiveness and safety for the community and the environment.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TRIBUTARY OF HURRICANE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

3.13

Nid Storage

2232

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds