Purdy Lake Dam, located in the Lesters Chapel Community of Shelby County, Alabama, was completed in 1968 by the USDA NRCS.
Wind
Humidity
This private earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and stretches 175 feet in length, holding a maximum storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Purdy Lake Dam is to provide a fish and wildlife pond, as well as recreational opportunities for the community.
Despite its low hazard potential, Purdy Lake Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam has not been inspected since August 1979 and is currently not rated for its condition. While it does not have a state regulatory agency overseeing its operations, the dam serves as an important resource for the conservation of fish and wildlife in the area. With a spillway width of 60 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 4800 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow along the Yellowleaf Creek.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Purdy Lake Dam to be a fascinating structure, blending engineering with environmental conservation efforts. As a key feature in the landscape of the Lesters Chapel Community, the dam provides a unique habitat for fish and wildlife while offering recreational benefits to the local residents. It serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human development and the preservation of natural ecosystems, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
175 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
TR. YELLOWLEAF CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
103 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
28 |