Howard Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Howard, located in Talladega, Alabama, is a local government-owned dam on the TALLASEEHATCHEE CREEK, with a primary purpose of recreation and water supply.


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Summary

Built in 1956, the Earth-type dam has a hydraulic height of 75 feet and a structural height of 75 feet, with a total length of 836 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 7983 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 4733 acre-feet.

Despite not being regulated by the state, Howard has a high hazard potential and is not currently rated for its condition assessment. There is no Emergency Action Plan in place, and the dam has not been inspected recently. The dam does not have an inundation map prepared, but it has a maximum discharge capacity of 123,232 cubic feet per second. With its location in a picturesque area near Sycamore, Howard offers recreational opportunities while also serving as a vital water supply source for the region.

Overall, Howard stands as a significant structure in the water resource landscape of Alabama, providing both recreational enjoyment and essential water supply functions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the details of Howard's design, construction, and current condition can offer valuable insights into the management and maintenance of dams in the region. Despite some potential risks associated with Howard, its role in supporting the local community underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of the dam for years to come.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

836

River Or Stream

TALLASEEHATCHEE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

75

Nid Storage

7983

Structural Height

75

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

75
       
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.