Mitchell Reservoir Report
Nearby: Livingston Lake Dam Lightfoot Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Mitchell Lake, located in Wetumpka, Alabama, is a captivating hydroelectric reservoir owned by the Alabama Power Company.
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Summary
Built in 1923, this gravity dam stands at a height of 106 feet and spans 1264 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 172,000 acre-feet of water. The dam, designed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, serves as a vital source of hydroelectric power and recreation for the surrounding area.
With a spillway width of 964 feet and a maximum discharge of 510,000 cubic feet per second, Mitchell Lake poses a high hazard potential due to its size and location on the Coosa River. The dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Available," highlighting the need for continued monitoring and inspection to ensure the safety of the structure. Despite its age, Mitchell Lake remains a key component of the region's water resource infrastructure, contributing to flood control, water supply, and renewable energy production.
As climate change and water resource management become increasingly important topics, Mitchell Lake stands as a testament to the enduring importance of hydroelectric power and the need for sustainable dam operations. With its rich history and significant storage capacity, Mitchell Lake remains a vital resource for both the local community and the broader ecosystem, showcasing the intersection of water management, energy production, and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1923 |
Dam Length |
1264 |
Dam Height |
106 |
River Or Stream |
Coosa River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
5850 |
Hydraulic Height |
60 |
Drainage Area |
9827 |
Nid Storage |
172000 |
Structural Height |
106 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 26 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
106 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hatchet Creek Below Rockford Al
|
133cfs |
Alabama River Near Montgomery
|
3340cfs |
Tallapoosa River Near Mont.-Mont. Water Works
|
1710cfs |
Mulberry Creek At Jones Al
|
124cfs |
Coosa River At Childersburg Al
|
4070cfs |
Catoma Creek Near Montgomery Al
|
24cfs |
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.
Mitchell