Chandler Mountain Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Chandler Mountain, also known as Chandler Lake, is a privately owned earth dam located in Rainbow City, Alabama.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with some recreational benefits as well. Standing at 25 feet high and 500 feet long, it has a storage capacity of 2460 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.02 square miles.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Chandler Mountain dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 80 feet wide, can handle a maximum discharge of 2608 cubic feet per second. Although it has not been inspected since 1985 and is currently not rated for its condition, the risk management measures and emergency action plan for this dam remain unspecified.

With its picturesque location along Gulf Creek and its significant contribution to irrigation in the region, Chandler Mountain dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to stay informed about the state of such infrastructure and advocate for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of our water resources.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

GULF CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.02

Nid Storage

2460

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.