Lary Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lary Lake Dam, also known as Dells Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.


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Summary

Built in 1962 by USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and spans a length of 518 feet, with a storage capacity of 357 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is to serve as a fish and wildlife pond, enhancing recreational opportunities in the area.

With a drainage area of 0.34 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1030 cubic feet per second, Lary Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The dam's spillway, of uncontrolled type and with a width of 61 feet, helps regulate water levels and prevent potential flooding downstream. While it is rated as having a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition remains unrated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts to ensure its continued safety and functionality for the surrounding community.

As a notable feature in the landscape of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Lary Lake Dam exemplifies the intersection of water resource management and environmental conservation. Its construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service reflects a commitment to enhancing fish and wildlife habitats while providing recreational opportunities for residents. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive risk management strategies in safeguarding critical infrastructure for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

518

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR-LARY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.34

Nid Storage

357

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

34
       
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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