Lake Nicol Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Nicol Dam, located in Holt, Alabama, was completed in 1954 and serves as a crucial water supply source for the area.


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Summary

Standing at a structural height of 82 feet with a hydraulic height of 77 feet, the dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 10,349 acre-feet. This earth-type dam on Yellow Creek is under the ownership of the local government and has a low hazard potential, with its condition yet to be formally rated.

Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, Lake Nicol Dam plays a vital role in water resource management for Tuscaloosa County. With no associated structures or federal agency involvement, the dam primarily functions for water supply purposes. The surrounding community benefits from its presence, although there is room for further assessment and risk management measures to ensure its continued safety and operation.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

800

River Or Stream

YELLOW CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

77

Nid Storage

10349

Structural Height

82

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

82
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds