Matthews Reservoir Report
Nearby: Greene No 2 Yuchi Lake
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Matthews, located in Russell County, Alabama, is a privately owned recreational dam on TR Cowpen Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1960, this earthen dam stands at a hydraulic height of 15 feet and a structural height of 16 feet, with a total length of 400 feet. With a storage capacity of 65 acre-feet, Matthews serves primarily for recreational purposes and has a maximum discharge rate of 90 cubic feet per second. Despite not being regulated or inspected by the state, Matthews holds a significant hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and emergency preparedness.
Although not under federal jurisdiction, Matthews plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities in the area. Situated within the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam is not subject to federal funding or oversight. The dam's condition is currently not rated, and no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) has been prepared or updated, highlighting potential risks in the event of a dam failure. Given its significant hazard potential, it is essential for the owners of Matthews to prioritize safety measures and regular inspections to ensure the integrity of the structure and the protection of downstream communities.
Overall, Matthews represents a valuable recreational resource in Alabama, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. Its location in the Third Congressional District of Alabama, represented by Mike Rogers, underscores the importance of maintaining and monitoring this dam to prevent any potential risks to public safety and the surrounding environment. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the resilience and safety of dams like Matthews to mitigate any potential hazards and ensure sustainable water management practices in the future.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
400 |
River Or Stream |
TR COWPEN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
65 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Matthews