Lake Helen Reservoir Report
Nearby: Roeton Mill Pond Dam Harris Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Helen, located in Coffee County, Alabama, is a serene fish and wildlife pond designed by the USDA NRCS in 1973.
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Summary
This private earth dam stands at 22 feet high and stretches 525 feet long, with a storage capacity of 302 acre-feet. The dam serves primarily for fish and wildlife conservation, with recreational opportunities also available for enthusiasts in the area.
Despite its low hazard potential, Lake Helen has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, indicating the need for proactive risk management measures. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet and a drainage area of 0.55 square miles. With a maximum discharge of 1376 cubic feet per second, the dam contributes to the conservation efforts in the region while providing a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking to connect with nature.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Helen offers a glimpse into sustainable conservation practices and the importance of maintaining critical infrastructure for wildlife habitat. With its picturesque setting and recreational opportunities, this hidden gem in Elba, Alabama, stands as a testament to the delicate balance between environmental preservation and public enjoyment.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
525 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CLEARWATER CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.55 |
Nid Storage |
302 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Lake Helen