Holt Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Holt Lock and Dam, also known as Holt Lake, is a crucial Federal structure located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, along the Black Warrior River.


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Summary

Completed in 1968, this gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes, with additional benefits for hydroelectric power generation and recreation. The dam's impressive hydraulic height of 108 feet and structural height of 120 feet, along with a controlled spillway and a single lock measuring 600 feet in length, ensure efficient water management and safe passage for vessels.

With a storage capacity of 117,990 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 639,500 cubic feet per second, Holt Lock and Dam plays a vital role in the region's water resource management. The dam's high hazard potential necessitates thorough risk management measures by the US Army Corps of Engineers, including regular inspections, emergency action plans, and collaboration with local emergency managers. Despite its essential functions, the dam does not eliminate all flood risks, emphasizing the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and public safety.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

1400

River Or Stream

BLACK WARRIOR RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

3300

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

108

Drainage Area

4232

Nid Storage

117990

Structural Height

120

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

120
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.