Harris Saunders Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Gulf States Columbiana Sw Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Harris Saunders Dam, located in Dry Valley, Alabama, was completed in 1974 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a fish and wildlife pond.
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Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet and has a length of 375 feet, providing a storage capacity of 138 acre-feet. The dam's primary purposes include fish and wildlife conservation, as well as recreation for enthusiasts in the Chilton County area.
With a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Harris Saunders Dam is a key feature along TR-Mahan Creek. The uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 65 feet, allows for a maximum discharge of 380 cubic feet per second. Although the dam is privately owned, it does not fall under state or federal regulatory jurisdiction, highlighting its unique status in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Harris Saunders Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of conservation efforts and recreational opportunities in Alabama. With its focus on fish and wildlife preservation and limited hazard potential, this earth dam serves as a valuable asset in the local ecosystem while providing a space for outdoor activities in the surrounding area.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
375 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MAHAN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Drainage Area |
0.19 |
Nid Storage |
138 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
41 |
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.
C C Gilbert