Thornton Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Flat Top Mine-#1 Impoundment Imp No.1
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Thornton Lake, located in Jefferson County, Alabama, is a private recreational lake with a dam that was completed in 1920.
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Summary
The lake, situated near Falls Creek, has a significant hazard potential and a hydraulic height of 15 feet, with a structural height of 18 feet. With a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet, Thornton Lake offers a serene environment for water and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and picnicking.
Despite not being regulated by the state, Thornton Lake presents a beautiful landscape and a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking to unwind in nature. With a maximum discharge of 150 cubic feet per second, the lake offers a safe recreational environment for individuals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The dam, primarily constructed for recreational purposes, stands at a length of 1750 feet and a normal storage capacity of 120 acre-feet, providing ample space for water-based activities.
Although not rated for its condition assessment, Thornton Lake remains a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, boasting a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The lake is a testament to human ingenuity and the harmonious coexistence between water resources and recreational activities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Thornton Lake serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving natural landscapes while enjoying the benefits of outdoor recreation in a safe and sustainable manner.
Year Completed |
1920 |
Dam Length |
1750 |
River Or Stream |
FALLS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
140 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Locust Fork At Sayre
|
168cfs |
Mulberry Fork At Cordova Al
|
2820cfs |
Village Creek Near Docena
|
58cfs |
Fivemile Creek Near Republic
|
19cfs |
Village Creek Near Pratt City
|
31cfs |
Village Creek At Avenue W At Ensley
|
23cfs |
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.
Thornton Lake