Bonds Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bonds Lake Dam, located in Winston County, Alabama, serves primarily as a recreational water resource for the community.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam, completed in 1960, stands at a hydraulic height of 35 feet and a structural height of 37 feet, with a length of 300 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 84 acre-feet, making it a key feature for water supply and flood control in the area.

Managed by a private owner, Bonds Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently not rated for its condition assessment. Despite lacking state regulation and inspection, the dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. The surrounding area, including the Chambers Branch river, offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and wildlife observation.

As a part of the Mobile District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Bonds Lake Dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in Alabama. While the dam may not have a designated spillway or outlet gates, its presence plays a crucial role in water conservation and environmental protection in the region. With its rich history and ongoing recreational significance, Bonds Lake Dam remains an important landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

CHAMBERS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

84

Structural Height

37

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

37
       
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.