Hawkins Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hawkins is a private recreational dam located in DeKalb, Alabama, along the Bethel Branch river.


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Summary

Constructed in 1958, this earth dam stands at 14 feet tall and spans 330 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. Despite its modest size, Hawkins plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community, offering activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.

Managed by the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Hawkins has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated for its condition assessment. While the dam has not undergone recent inspections or assessments, it remains a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With its serene surroundings and easy access to the Bethel Branch river, Hawkins serves as a valuable resource for both locals and visitors alike.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hawkins represents a unique blend of human engineering and natural beauty. As a privately owned recreational dam, it stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in ensuring the continued enjoyment of our natural resources. While the dam's condition assessment may be lacking, its low hazard potential and historical significance make it a noteworthy site for those interested in exploring the intersection of water infrastructure and environmental conservation in the Southeastern United States.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

330

River Or Stream

BETHEL BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
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.