Hames Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Lawley, Alabama, Hames is a private recreational dam on TR Kelly Creek that was completed in 1957.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 24 feet and a structural height of 28 feet, this earth dam stands at 250 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and being classified as "Not Rated" in its condition assessment, Hames has not been inspected recently, raising concerns about its overall safety and maintenance.

The dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to enjoy recreational activities in the St. Clair County area. While Hames does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, its significance lies in providing a water resource for the local community and attracting visitors for leisurely pursuits. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, ensuring the proper upkeep and monitoring of dams like Hames is crucial for both safety and environmental sustainability.

As part of Congressional District 03 in Alabama, Hames is overseen by Representative Mike Rogers (R) and the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment remain unclear, the potential risks associated with outdated inspection records and lack of regulatory oversight highlight the importance of proactive management and investment in water infrastructure for resilient and sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1957

Dam Length

250

River Or Stream

TR KELLY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.