Tadpole Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tadpole is a privately-owned dam located in Whites Chapel, Alabama, along the TR Big Black Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1954, this Earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a structural height of 23 feet, with a length of 170 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet, with a maximum discharge of 280 cubic feet per second. Tadpole primarily serves the purpose of recreation, offering opportunities for visitors to enjoy water activities in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential and not rated condition assessment, Tadpole does not fall under state regulation and inspection, with no state jurisdiction or permitting in place. Owned by a private entity, this dam remains a focal point for recreational activities in St. Clair County, Alabama. The surrounding area offers picturesque views and opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to engage with water resources and appreciate the natural beauty of the TR Big Black Creek.

Tadpole's presence contributes to the local ecosystem and provides a space for community members to connect with nature and enjoy leisure activities. As a part of the larger water resource network in Alabama, this dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human infrastructure and environmental conservation efforts. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Tadpole in providing recreational opportunities while maintaining a balance with the surrounding natural habitat.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

170

River Or Stream

TR BIG BLACK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

100

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.