Lake Sherwood Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Sherwood Dam in Northport, Alabama stands as a testament to the careful engineering of the USDA NRCS, serving as a vital piece of infrastructure for the region.


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Summary

Completed in 1954, this private dam primarily functions as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing essential habitat for local species. With a height of 20 feet and a length of 345 feet, it offers a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet while also controlling a drainage area of 0.13 square miles.

Despite its age, Lake Sherwood Dam remains in a condition assessed as "Not Rated" with a low hazard potential. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, 60 feet in width, can discharge up to 1800 cubic feet per second in case of emergency. Although last inspected in 1978, the dam's risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, prompting the need for continued monitoring and potential risk management measures in the future.

Located in Tuscaloosa County and managed by a private entity, Lake Sherwood Dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate challenges. With its modest yet crucial role in supporting local flora and fauna, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between human infrastructure and environmental conservation in the dynamic landscape of Alabama.

Year Completed

1954

Dam Length

345

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-MILL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.13

Nid Storage

78

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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