Joe Glover Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Joe Glover Dam, located in Sawyerville, Alabama, was completed in 1980 by the USDA NRCS and serves as a vital fish and wildlife pond in the area.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at 18 feet high and spans 600 feet along Wright Creek, with a storage capacity of 235 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.31 square miles. Although the dam is classified as low hazard potential, it poses a moderate risk due to its condition assessment being marked as "Not Rated."

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet, and despite not being regulated by the state, it plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. With its primary purpose being fish and wildlife conservation, Joe Glover Dam contributes to the ecological balance of the area while providing recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. As a private-owned structure, the dam exemplifies the collaboration between government agencies and private entities in maintaining and preserving water resources for future generations.

In the context of climate change and increasing water scarcity, Joe Glover Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices. Its construction by the Natural Resources Conservation Service highlights the role of innovative engineering in creating resilient infrastructure for adapting to changing environmental conditions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the conservation efforts supported by Joe Glover Dam serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water, wildlife, and communities, showcasing the potential for dams to not only provide essential services but also contribute to overall environmental health and well-being.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

WRIGHT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.31

Nid Storage

235

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.
View more

Area Campgrounds

Location Reservations Toilets
Joe Glover DamJennings Ferry Preview Jennings Ferry
Joe Glover DamLock 7 Preview Lock 7
Joe Glover DamLock 8 Preview Lock 8