Ellis Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ellis Lake in Alabama is a privately owned water resource that was completed in 1966, with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

The earth dam stands at a structural height of 30 feet, with a hydraulic height of 27 feet, providing a storage capacity of 118 acre-feet. Located in Jefferson County, the lake is fed by the TR-BLUE CREEK stream and covers an area of 350 feet in length. Despite being non-regulated by the state, Ellis Lake poses a low hazard potential and has not been rated for its condition assessment.

Water and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by the potential for recreational activities at Ellis Lake, as well as the opportunity to explore the surrounding Black Diamond area. The lake offers a serene setting for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. With a maximum discharge capability of 100 cubic feet per second, the lake ensures a steady flow of water for various outdoor activities.

While the exact details of the lake's infrastructure and emergency preparedness measures are not specified, the low hazard potential and lack of state regulation suggest that Ellis Lake is a relatively safe and stable water resource. As a privately owned facility, the lake provides a unique opportunity for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of Alabama while engaging in recreational pursuits. Whether for a leisurely day of fishing or a peaceful boat ride, Ellis Lake offers a tranquil escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to connect with nature.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

350

River Or Stream

TR-BLUE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

118

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.