Sharp Branch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sharp Branch Dam, located in DeKalb, Alabama, is a private dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 400 feet. It has a storage capacity of 177 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 115 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Sharp Branch river, within the DESOTO PARK COMMUNITY.

Managed by the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Sharp Branch Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. Although it has not been inspected recently, the dam remains in operation and meets the necessary guidelines for emergency action planning. With a maximum discharge rate of 291 cubic feet per second, the dam serves as an important recreational resource for the local community.

Overall, Sharp Branch Dam provides a valuable water resource for the area, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and water recreation. While its condition assessment is currently not rated, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively and safely. As a private facility, it plays a key role in providing recreational opportunities in the DeKalb County region of Alabama.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

400

River Or Stream

SHARP BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

177

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

19
       
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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.