Cardwell Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kimball Lake Perman
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cardwell, located in Rainbow City West, Etowah County, Alabama, is a privately owned dam built in 1954 for recreational purposes along the TR-Hopton Creek.
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Summary
With a height of 21 feet and a length of 440 feet, Cardwell has a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 61 cubic feet per second. Despite not having state jurisdiction or regulation, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its safety and integrity.
Although not federally funded or regulated, Cardwell poses a potential risk due to its condition assessment being "Not Rated" and lacking an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). The dam's hazard potential coupled with the absence of crucial safety measures underscores the need for proactive risk management strategies and the development of an EAP to protect downstream communities in the event of a dam failure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the vulnerabilities of structures like Cardwell is essential in mitigating potential threats to both the environment and public safety.
As a part of the Mobile District in Alabama, Cardwell serves as a recreational water resource for the local community. While its primary purpose is for leisure activities, the dam's structural integrity and risk assessment play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of residents and the surrounding environment. By staying informed and advocating for proper maintenance and emergency preparedness, water resource and climate enthusiasts can contribute to the sustainable management of dams like Cardwell for future generations to enjoy safely.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
440 |
River Or Stream |
TR-HOPTON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Cardwell
Riverview Drive St. Clair County