Chitwood Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Chitwood is a privately owned dam located in DeKalb, Alabama, along the Brown Branch river.
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Summary
Built in 1966, this earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 16 feet. With a total length of 557 feet, the dam provides recreational opportunities in the area, serving its primary purpose as a recreational spot for visitors.
Despite its recreational appeal, Chitwood poses a high hazard potential and has not been rated for its current condition. The dam has a storage capacity of 162 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 1038 cubic feet per second, making it crucial to monitor and inspect the structure regularly to ensure public safety. Although there is no state regulation or enforcement in place for this dam, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with its operation.
As an enthusiast of water resources and climate, understanding the infrastructure and potential risks of dams like Chitwood is essential in promoting sustainable water management practices. By staying informed about the condition and safety measures of such structures, we can work towards protecting our water resources and the communities that rely on them for recreation and other purposes.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
557 |
River Or Stream |
BROWN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
162 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Chitwood