Summary
Constructed in 1977, the dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the TR Little Chatahospee River. With a hydraulic height of 17 feet and a structural height of 22 feet, Dempsey has a NID storage capacity of 135 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 70 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential rating and is currently in a not rated condition assessment status.
Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers' Mobile District, Dempsey has not been modified since its completion and does not have associated structures such as spillways or outlet gates. The dam has a maximum discharge capacity of 935 cubic feet per second and a length of 450 feet. Despite being state-regulated, Dempsey does not fall under state jurisdiction for permitting, inspection, or enforcement. The dam's emergency action plan, risk assessment, and inundation maps have not been prepared or updated, indicating potential gaps in emergency preparedness measures.
Overall, Dempsey plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area, although its lack of certain regulatory and emergency preparedness measures may warrant further attention. Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and safety of dams like Dempsey in Alabama's Congressional District 03 may find the details on its design, purpose, and operational status intriguing for further exploration and analysis.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
450 |
River Or Stream |
TR LITTLE CHATAHOSPEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
135 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Dempsey