Owen Kenan Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in North West Selma, Alabama, the Owen Kenan Dam is a private-owned structure built in 1970 primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Situated on the TR-Fourmile Creek, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 26 feet with a hydraulic height of 23 feet and a length of 450 feet. With a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet, the dam is capable of holding a maximum storage of 92 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 84 acre-feet.

Despite its low hazard potential and being designated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, the Owen Kenan Dam provides a vital recreational resource for the surrounding community. Operated without state regulation or inspection, the dam serves as an important landmark in Dallas County, Alabama. While lacking certain structural details such as dam volume and surface area, the dam's purpose in providing recreational opportunities is evident through its design and location.

Managed by private owners and not affiliated with any federal agency, the Owen Kenan Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation at a local level. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate change, the unique characteristics of this dam serve as a reminder of the diverse infrastructure that plays a role in sustaining our environment and communities.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

450

River Or Stream

TR-FOURMILE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

92

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.