State Cattle Ranch Dam No.7 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
State Cattle Ranch Dam No.7, also known as State Prison Dams, is a privately owned structure located in Port Royal, Alabama.
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Summary
Built in 1973, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 24 feet and has a length of 625 feet, providing a storage capacity of 96 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Limestone Creek in Hale County, this dam serves a primary purpose of "Other" and has a low hazard potential rating.
Despite its age, State Cattle Ranch Dam No.7 has not been rated for its condition and lacks important emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps. With no state regulation or inspection, the responsibility for maintenance and safety falls solely on the private owner. The dam's location in a relatively rural area adds to the importance of proper risk assessment and management to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the protection of water resources.
As a noteworthy structure in Alabama's water resource infrastructure, State Cattle Ranch Dam No.7 serves as a reminder of the importance of proper monitoring and maintenance of dams, especially in areas with limited regulatory oversight. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates can use this case as an example of the need for increased attention to aging infrastructure and the implementation of emergency preparedness measures to mitigate potential risks and ensure the long-term safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
625 |
River Or Stream |
TR-LIMESTONE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
96 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lock 5
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Forkland/McConnico Creek
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Runaway Branch
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Belmont Park
|
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Lock 7
|
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Jennings Ferry
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State Cattle Ranch Dam No.7