William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam, also known as Oliver Lake, is a federal structure located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, along the Black Warrior River.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1992, this gravity dam serves primarily for navigation purposes, with additional benefits for fish and wildlife pond management. The dam has a hydraulic height of 49 feet and a structural height of 67 feet, with a length of 1200 feet and a storage capacity of 35 acre-feet. The dam also features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 800 feet, and a single lock measuring 600 feet in length and 110 feet in width.
Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, the William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam poses a significant hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment. To mitigate flood risks associated with the dam, the USACE employs various risk management measures, including continuous monitoring of the dam's condition, prioritizing activities to reduce risks, and collaborating with local emergency managers and the public to raise awareness and preparedness for dam-related emergencies. Regular maintenance and repairs are conducted to ensure the dam's proper functioning and structural integrity. While dams do not eliminate all flood risks, the USACE is committed to addressing potential issues and safeguarding the surrounding communities from the impacts of severe weather events and water management challenges.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
1200 |
River Or Stream |
Black Warrier |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
790 |
Length Of Locks |
600 |
Hydraulic Height |
49 |
Drainage Area |
4821 |
Nid Storage |
35 |
Structural Height |
67 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
67 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lake Lurleen State Park
|
||
Deerlick
|
||
Holt Lake
|