John Davidson Reservoir Report
Nearby: Martha Gresham
Last Updated: December 18, 2025
John Davidson, also known as Davidson Lake, is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Sawyerville, Alabama.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1969 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a length of 700 feet. With a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.11 square miles, it serves as a low hazard potential structure along the TR-Black Warrior river.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, John Davidson provides valuable habitat for aquatic life and recreational opportunities for the local community. The dam's uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet allows for the safe release of excess water, while the moderate risk assessment indicates the need for ongoing monitoring and management. Although its condition is currently not rated, the structure's importance for fish and wildlife conservation remains a priority for the USDA NRCS.
In the congressional district represented by Terri A. Sewell, John Davidson serves as a vital resource for water management and climate resilience in the region. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, it is essential to recognize the role of privately owned structures like Davidson Lake in supporting biodiversity and sustainable practices. By understanding and appreciating the efforts of organizations like the USDA NRCS in designing and maintaining such facilities, we can contribute to the preservation and enhancement of our natural environment.
Year Completed |
1969 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BLACK WARRIOR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.11 |
Nid Storage |
106 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lock 5
|
||
Forkland/McConnico Creek
|
||
Runaway Branch
|
||
Lock 7
|
||
Jennings Ferry
|
Lelia Myers Dam