Glassco Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Glassco Lake Dam, located in Etowah, Alabama, stands as a private structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1940, this earth dam boasts a hydraulic height of 16 feet and a structural height of 18 feet, with a total length of 300 feet. The dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 46 acre-feet, making it a significant resource for the surrounding area.

Despite its recreational significance, Glassco Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspection and maintenance. With a condition assessment of "Not Rated" and no recent inspection data available, there remains a level of uncertainty surrounding the dam's current safety standards. However, with a history dating back to the 1940s, the dam continues to provide both leisure opportunities and potential risks for the community of Ivalee and the broader area.

As a noteworthy feature along TR-Brown Creek, Glassco Lake Dam showcases the intersection of human engineering and natural resources. With its proximity to Congressional District 04 and the stewardship of local representative Robert B. Aderholt, the dam serves as a vital component of the region's water resource infrastructure. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of this dam, its historical significance and potential risks underscore the delicate balance between harnessing water for recreational purposes and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

TR-BROWN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

18
       
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.