Summary
Clair County, Alabama. Built in 1953 by the USDA NRCS, the earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and spans a length of 270 feet. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, the lake also serves as a fish and wildlife pond and recreational area for enthusiasts to enjoy.
Covering a drainage area of 1.02 square miles, Baptist Lake has a maximum storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 131 acre-feet. The spillway, measuring 35 feet in width, is uncontrolled and allows for a maximum discharge of 1263 cubic feet per second. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam has not been formally assessed for its condition, but its maintenance falls under the responsibility of the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Baptist Lake presents an intriguing case study of a privately-owned reservoir in Alabama that serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and recreational activities. With its rich history dating back to the 1950s and its strategic location near TR Cane Creek, the lake offers a glimpse into the management and conservation efforts undertaken by the USDA NRCS to ensure its safety and functionality. As an integral part of the local landscape, Baptist Lake continues to play a vital role in balancing environmental protection with human activities in the region.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR CANE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
1.02 |
Nid Storage |
180 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Baptist Lake
Highlands Drive Trussville