William Dale Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: William Dale Morrison Brothers
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
William Dale Dam, located in Hale County, Alabama, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1970 for recreational purposes along the TR-Big Prairie Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a hydraulic height of 18 feet and a structural height of 21 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 175 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 850 cubic feet per second. The dam also serves as a significant hazard potential due to its proximity to Sunshine High School and surrounding areas.
Managed by the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, William Dale Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment and lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) according to available data. Despite its lack of regulatory oversight from the state, the dam continues to be a key recreational spot for residents and visitors alike, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities. With its rich history dating back over 50 years, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the risk management measures for William Dale Dam remain unclear. While the dam has not experienced any major modifications or incidents in recent years, it is crucial for the owners and relevant agencies to prioritize the safety and maintenance of the structure to ensure the protection of downstream communities and the environment. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to monitor and advocate for the proper management of dams like William Dale to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the surrounding ecosystem for future generations.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
1100 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG PRAIRIE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
175 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
William Dale Dam