Russell Lee Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Russell Lee Lake Dam, also known as Lee Lake, is a privately owned structure located in the Liberty Church Community in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.


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Summary

Built in 1970 by the USDA NRCS, this earthen dam stands at a height of 11 feet and stretches 1100 feet in length. Its primary purpose is to serve as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing a habitat for various species in the area.

The dam has a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 54 acre-feet. The dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment. Despite not being regularly inspected or rated for its condition, the dam continues to serve its intended purpose effectively. While it does not have state jurisdiction or regulation, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.

Although the dam does not have a designated Emergency Action Plan or updated contact information for emergency situations, its presence contributes to the overall management and conservation of water resources in the region. With its focus on creating a viable habitat for fish and wildlife, Russell Lee Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change challenges.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

TR-BLACK WARRIOR RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

78

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

11
       
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.