Thurlow Reservoir Report
Nearby: Yates Annie T Gregory Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Thurlow is a gravity dam located on the Tallapoosa River in Elmore, Alabama, with a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation and recreation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1930, this multi-arch dam stands at a height of 62 feet and has a hydraulic height of 45.9 feet, with a capacity to store 18,250 acre-feet of water. The dam has a length of 1,926 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 430,000 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial infrastructure for water resource management in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Thurlow is considered to have a high hazard potential due to its location and design. Although the condition assessment is not available, the dam meets moderate risk assessment criteria. Despite its age, Thurlow continues to play a vital role in providing clean energy and recreational opportunities in the area. With its picturesque surroundings and historical significance, Thurlow serves as a prime example of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Alabama.
Thurlow's presence not only contributes to the local economy but also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and upgrading critical water infrastructure. As climate change poses new challenges to water resources, Thurlow stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability needed to ensure the sustainable management of water for future generations. Its role in flood control, power generation, and recreational activities underscores the importance of investing in and safeguarding our water resources to mitigate the impacts of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
1926 |
Dam Height |
62 |
River Or Stream |
Tallapoosa River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
574 |
Hydraulic Height |
45.9 |
Drainage Area |
3300 |
Nid Storage |
18250 |
Structural Height |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
62 |
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.
Thurlow