Zamora Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Zamora Lake Dam, also known as Emerald Lake, is a private recreational dam located in Jefferson County, Alabama.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 31 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 2385 acre-feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing opportunities for activities such as fishing and boating on the Zamora Lake.

Despite its recreational focus, Zamora Lake Dam is categorized as having a high hazard potential, indicating the potential risk associated with its operation. While the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," it is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to stay informed about the safety and maintenance of this structure. With a maximum discharge capacity of 4405 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow along the Gurley Creek and ensuring the safety of surrounding areas.

As a key feature in the Mobile District of Alabama, Zamora Lake Dam is a significant part of the local landscape and provides valuable recreational opportunities for visitors to the Jade Lake Campsites. Its construction and operation are overseen by private owners, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of this important water resource in the region.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

1030

River Or Stream

GURLEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

2385

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

31
       
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.