Millers Ferry Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Millers Ferry Lock and Dam, also known as William (Bill) Dannelly Lake, is a federal-owned structure located in Midway, Alabama, along the Alabama River.


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Summary

Completed in 1970 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this gravity dam serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, navigation, and recreation. With a hydraulic height of 55 feet and a structural height of 100 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks in the region.

The dam, with a length of 1167 feet and a storage capacity of 331,800 acre-feet, provides vital flood control measures and recreational opportunities for visitors. Despite its significant hazard potential, the US Army Corps of Engineers employs various risk management measures to ensure the dam's structural integrity and public safety. This includes regular inspections, maintenance activities, and collaboration with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans and raise public awareness about the dam's functions and potential risks.

Millers Ferry Lock and Dam is a key infrastructure asset in Alabama's water resource management system, demonstrating the importance of sustainable dam operations in the face of climate variability and extreme weather events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of this dam in flood risk management and recreational activities can provide valuable insights into the interconnected relationship between water resources, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship in the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1167

River Or Stream

ALABAMA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

17200

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

55

Drainage Area

20637

Nid Storage

331800

Structural Height

100

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

100
       
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.