Hopewell Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hopewell Lake, also known as Higginbothams Lake, is a private water resource located in Jefferson County, Alabama.


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Summary

This recreational lake was completed in 1965 and has a significant potential hazard rating due to its earth dam structure standing at 26 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 22 feet. With a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet, Hopewell Lake offers a serene setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking for residents and visitors in the area.

Situated within the HOPEWELL CHURCH COMM of Alabama, Hopewell Lake is fed by TR-GURLEY CREEK and is under the jurisdiction of the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Although the dam is privately owned, it is not regulated or inspected by state agencies. Despite being non-federally owned, Hopewell Lake serves as a crucial recreational spot in the region, attracting enthusiasts of water resources and climate to enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility it offers.

As an integral part of the recreational landscape in Jefferson County, Hopewell Lake provides a valuable escape for individuals seeking outdoor adventures. With its lush surroundings and ample storage capacity, this private water resource presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to engage in various activities while appreciating the beauty of nature. Although the dam's condition is not rated, efforts to ensure safety and emergency preparedness are essential to protect the surrounding community and enhance the overall experience for visitors to Hopewell Lake.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

320

River Or Stream

TR-GURLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

170

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

26
       
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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.