Finger Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Finger Lake Dam, located in Dunvant, Alabama, was completed in 1977 and serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The earth dam, with a hydraulic height of 36 feet and a length of 360 feet, impounds Shoal Creek to create Finger Lake. The dam has a storage capacity of 87 acre-feet, with normal storage levels at 66 acre-feet, providing ample water for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming.

Managed by a private owner, Finger Lake Dam has a significant hazard potential and has not been formally rated for its condition. Despite lacking state regulation and inspection, the dam remains a popular destination for water enthusiasts in the Shelby County area. While there have been no recent modifications or inspections reported, it is important for visitors to be aware of emergency contacts and evacuation procedures in case of any unforeseen events at the dam.

With its scenic location and ample recreational opportunities, Finger Lake Dam continues to attract visitors seeking a tranquil water environment in the heart of Alabama. As a significant part of the local landscape, the dam provides an important source of water-related activities and serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between water resource management and environmental conservation in the region.

Year Completed

1977

Dam Length

360

River Or Stream

TR-SHOAL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

36

Nid Storage

87

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

36
       
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.