Brown Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Brown, also known as Joy Dam, is a private structure located in Talladega, Alabama, specifically in the city of Lake Joy Estates.
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Summary
Built in 1965, this recreational dam sits on TR Shelton Creek and has a primary purpose of providing recreational opportunities for the local community. With a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 27 feet, Brown offers a storage capacity of 108 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 88 acre-feet.
Despite its recreational focus, Brown poses a significant hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. The dam, classified as an Earth type, has a length of 325 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 2 cubic feet per second. While there are no associated locks or spillways, the dam's location within the Mobile District of Alabama's Congressional District 03 adds complexity to its management and oversight.
With limited regulatory oversight and no state jurisdiction, Brown's lack of inspection and maintenance records raises concerns about its long-term safety and functionality. Its absence of an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps further underscore the need for improved risk assessment and management measures. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Brown serves as a focal point for understanding the challenges faced by private dam owners in ensuring the safety and sustainability of their structures amidst evolving environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
325 |
River Or Stream |
TR SHELTON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
108 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
27 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hatchet Creek Below Rockford Al
|
133cfs |
Coosa River At Childersburg Al
|
4070cfs |
Talladega Creek At Alpine Al
|
105cfs |
Hillabee Creek Near Hackneyville Al
|
97cfs |
Kelly Creek Near Vincent Al
|
20cfs |
Tallapoosa River Nr New Site
|
2670cfs |
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.
Brown