Weiss - Main Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Weiss - Main Dam, also known as Powerhouse Dam and West Freeboard Dike, is a significant earth and gravity dam located in Cherokee, Alabama.


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Summary

Completed in 1961, this dam serves primarily for hydroelectric purposes and recreation, with a maximum storage capacity of 306,400 acre-feet. The dam boasts a structural height of 85.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 49 feet, making it a crucial infrastructure for the region.

Operated by a public utility, the Weiss - Main Dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and has a high hazard potential due to its size and location on the Coosa River. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 16 feet and one Tainter (radial) outlet gate. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, and it is considered to have a very high risk level, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure safety and functionality.

With its significant role in providing hydroelectric power and recreational opportunities, the Weiss - Main Dam stands as a vital structure in the water resource management of the area. Its location, design, and historical significance make it a subject of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of human engineering with natural landscapes in the region.

Year Completed

1961

Dam Length

19253

Dam Height

85.5

River Or Stream

Coosa

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30200

Hydraulic Height

49

Drainage Area

5273

Nid Storage

306400

Structural Height

85.5

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

86
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.