Elizabeth Ables Structure Reservoir Report
Nearby: E Ables Lake Dam Roy Barnette Pond
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Elizabeth Ables Structure in Dallas, Alabama, is a private fish and wildlife pond designed by the USDA NRCS in 1973.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 19 feet and has a length of 900 feet, providing a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet for fire protection, stock, recreation, and fish and wildlife purposes. The dam, located on the TR-CHILATCHEE CK river/stream, has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Despite being privately owned, the Elizabeth Ables Structure does not fall under state jurisdiction or regulation, with no state permitting or inspection requirements. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 80 feet, and has not been assessed for condition or emergency action plan readiness. The structure's associated structures, such as outlet gates or locks, are not present, and there is limited information available on its risk management measures or inundation maps.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Elizabeth Ables Structure may find its design and purpose for fish and wildlife conservation intriguing. The dam's location in Donald, Alabama, in the Mobile District, offers a unique opportunity to study the impact of private conservation efforts on local water resources. Further research on the structure's risk assessment and emergency preparedness could provide valuable insights into the resilience of such private water management systems in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
TR-CHILATCHEE CK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.12 |
Nid Storage |
129 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Elizabeth Ables Structure