Adams Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tom Robinette Dam Wilder Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Adams Lake, located in Blount County, Alabama, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 17 feet with a hydraulic height of 14 feet. With a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet, the lake serves as a vital resource for the Sand Valley Community and surrounding areas.
Despite its modest size, Adams Lake holds a hazard potential rated as high, although its condition assessment is currently labeled as "Not Rated." The dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk assessment information are all listed as unknown, suggesting a need for further evaluation and preparedness measures. While the lake has not been inspected recently, its critical role in fire protection and local water supply underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, Adams Lake serves as a microcosm of the challenges faced by communities across Alabama and beyond. With its dual role in fire protection and ecosystem support, the lake stands as a reminder of the interconnectedness of water management, climate resilience, and emergency preparedness. As efforts to address these issues evolve, Adams Lake remains a valuable asset and a potential focal point for enhancing water resource management practices in the region.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
276 |
River Or Stream |
SAND VALLEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Adams Lake
Inland Lake Blount County