Ernest Dyess Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Brox Mcintosh Dam Loftins Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Ernest Dyess Lake, also known as Dyess Lake, is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Wilcox County, Alabama.
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Summary
Built in 1975 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 15 feet high and spans 496 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 114 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this reservoir is for fish and wildlife conservation, as well as recreational activities.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Ernest Dyess Lake provides a safe and enjoyable environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The spillway, designed as uncontrolled, has a width of 50 feet and the maximum discharge capacity is 331 cubic feet per second. It is situated along the TR-Gravel Creek, offering a serene setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, birdwatching, and nature exploration.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Ernest Dyess Lake serves as a valuable resource for the local community and visitors alike. While not regulated by the state, this reservoir provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty of Alabama's natural landscape and engage in sustainable outdoor recreation practices.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
496 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
TR-GRAVEL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.13 |
Nid Storage |
114 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Ernest Dyess Lake
Alabama River At Millers Ferry Dam