William Bacon Oliver Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam, also known as Oliver Lake, is a federal structure located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, along the Black Warrior River.


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Summary

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
       
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.
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