Waites Dam, located in Scottsboro, Alabama, along the Tennessee River, was completed in 1965 and is currently owned privately.
Wind
Humidity
Designed by the USDA NRCS, this rockfill dam stands at 15 feet high and stretches 543 feet in length, with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. The dam has a storage capacity of 44 acre-feet, providing vital resources for the local ecosystem and recreational activities.
Despite its limited state regulation and inspection, Waites Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its condition being unrated. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 92 feet, capable of handling a maximum discharge of 420 cubic feet per second. With a drainage area of 0.39 square miles, the dam contributes significantly to water resource management in the region, although its risk assessment is marked as very high.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Waites Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and environmental conservation. With its focus on fish and wildlife preservation, the dam serves as a crucial habitat for local species while also providing recreational opportunities for the community. Its risk management measures and emergency preparedness, however, remain areas of concern that require further attention to ensure the safety and sustainability of this important water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
543 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR TENNESSEE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Drainage Area |
0.39 |
Nid Storage |
44 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
15 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Jackson County Park
|
||
Goose Pond Colony
|
||
Dekalb County Public Lake
|