O L And Ema Hicks Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Elliotts Lake Dam Buttahatchee Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in the heart of Alabama, the O L and Ema Hicks Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience.
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Summary
Built in 1955 with a primary purpose of recreation, this privately-owned earth dam spans 335 feet in length and reaches a hydraulic height of 30 feet. With a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet, this dam on TR-SPLUNGE CREEK serves as a vital resource for the surrounding community of EAST SUBURBAN LYNN in Winston County. Despite its age, the dam remains in a significant hazard potential condition, yet its risk management measures and emergency response plans are not fully rated or prepared, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and assessment.
Managed by the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, the O L and Ema Hicks Lake Dam plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of water and ensuring the safety of downstream areas. Though not federally owned or funded, the dam still falls under the jurisdiction of Alabama's state regulatory agencies, with no current permits or inspections reported. As the dam continues to age, it is essential for stakeholders to prioritize the development of comprehensive risk assessments, emergency action plans, and hazard mitigation strategies to safeguard the surrounding environment and communities from potential disasters.
With its serene lake and picturesque surroundings, the O L and Ema Hicks Lake Dam offers a valuable recreational space for locals and tourists alike. However, the lack of updated inspection dates, condition assessments, and emergency preparedness measures underscores the need for enhanced monitoring and maintenance efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability and safety of this essential water resource. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, investing in the resilience of dams like O L and Ema Hicks Lake is crucial for protecting our communities and ecosystems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
335 |
River Or Stream |
TR-SPLUNGE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
O L And Ema Hicks Lake Dam