Lake Melaken Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Melaken in Shelby, Alabama, is a privately owned reservoir primarily used for recreation and water supply.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1959, this Earth dam has a hydraulic height of 33 feet and a structural height of 35 feet, with a storage capacity of 210 acre-feet. The reservoir is situated near the TRIB TO HOGPEN CR and is managed by the Mobile District of the USACE.

With a maximum discharge of 2375 cubic feet per second, Lake Melaken poses a high hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment. Despite lacking state regulation and inspection, the dam serves as a vital resource for the local community, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and sustaining water supply needs. Its picturesque location in PELHAM,AL, makes it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the intersection of human infrastructure and natural ecosystems.

While the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are not specified, Lake Melaken remains a captivating site for those interested in understanding the complex dynamics of water resource management and the impact of climate change on infrastructure resilience. As a key player in the region's water supply and recreational landscape, this privately owned reservoir exemplifies the intricate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1959

Dam Length

530

River Or Stream

TRIB TO HOGPEN CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

33

Nid Storage

210

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.