Belcher Lake Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Belcher Lake, also known as Brasher Lake, is a privately owned recreational lake located in Shelby County, Alabama.
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Summary
The dam was completed in 1951 and has a maximum storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. The lake spans a surface area of 72 acres and is primarily used for recreational purposes such as fishing and boating.
With a hydraulic height of 31 feet and a structural height of 36 feet, Belcher Lake poses a significant hazard potential. Despite not having an official condition assessment rating, the dam has not been inspected recently. There are no emergency action plans in place, and the risk management measures are unknown. The lake is situated in the Narrows community and is fed by the TR. Cooper Branch.
As a water resource and climate enthusiast, Belcher Lake offers an intriguing case study for understanding the importance of proper dam maintenance and emergency preparedness. With its significant hazard potential, the lake serves as a reminder of the importance of regular inspections, risk assessments, and emergency action plans to ensure the safety of both the dam structure and surrounding communities. The lack of recent inspections and emergency plans highlights the need for increased awareness and proactive measures to mitigate potential risks associated with dams like Belcher Lake.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
100 |
River Or Stream |
TR.COOPER BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Nid Storage |
74 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
36 |
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.
Belcher Lake