Howell Heflin Lock And Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Williams Dam Hill Ranch
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Howell Heflin Lock and Dam, also known as Gainesville Lake, is a federal structure located in Greene, Alabama, along the Tombigbee River.
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Summary
Completed in 1978 by CESAM, this gravity dam stands at 56 feet tall and spans 816 feet in length. Its primary purpose is navigation, with a single lock measuring 600 feet long and 110 feet wide. The dam has a hydraulic height of 46 feet and a max discharge capacity of 225,000 cubic feet per second, with a controlled spillway width of 523 feet.
Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Howell Heflin Lock and Dam is associated with a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. The dam's risk management measures focus on regular monitoring, maintenance, and engagement with emergency managers to address flood risks. An emergency action plan is in place, but updates and improvements are ongoing to ensure preparedness for any potential dam-related emergencies. With a commitment to public safety and risk mitigation, the US Army Corps of Engineers strives to safeguard the surrounding communities and water resources in the event of unforeseen challenges.
Year Completed |
1978 |
Dam Length |
816 |
River Or Stream |
TOMBIGBEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
6400 |
Length Of Locks |
600 |
Hydraulic Height |
46 |
Drainage Area |
7212 |
Nid Storage |
58000 |
Structural Height |
56 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
56 |
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.
Howell Heflin Lock And Dam