Waites Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Waites Dam, located in Scottsboro, Alabama, along the Tennessee River, was completed in 1965 and is currently owned privately.


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Summary

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
       
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.