Rutherford Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rutherford Dam, located on TR-PEAVINE CREEK in Shelby, Alabama, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1968, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 18 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet. With a storage capacity of 89 acre-feet, the dam provides essential water resources for the surrounding area. However, its high hazard potential and lack of condition assessment raise concerns for potential risks in the future.

Despite being under private ownership, Rutherford Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. With a maximum discharge capacity of 184 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for managing water flow and ensuring the safety of the local community. While the dam has not been rated for its current condition, the absence of an Emergency Action Plan and risk management measures may pose challenges in responding to potential emergencies or disasters.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the impact of climate change on dams and water infrastructure, the need for comprehensive evaluation and risk assessment of structures like Rutherford Dam becomes increasingly apparent. With its location in a high-risk area and limited regulatory oversight, ensuring the safety and integrity of the dam remains a critical concern for both local authorities and the broader community.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

402

River Or Stream

TR-PEAVINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

89

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.