William Dale Reservoir Report
Nearby: Morrison Brothers
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
William Dale, also known as Dale Lake, is a private fish and wildlife pond situated in the Sunshine School area of Hale, Alabama.
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Summary
Built by the USDA NRCS in 1970, this Earth dam reaches a height of 21 feet and spans a length of 800 feet. With a storage capacity of 123 acre-feet, the dam serves primarily for fish and wildlife purposes within the Big Prairie watershed.
Managed by private owners, William Dale boasts a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating. Its uncontrolled spillway, measuring 60 feet in width, can handle a maximum discharge of 190 cubic feet per second. Despite its last inspection dating back to 1979, the dam remains in a condition that is currently not rated, indicating the need for further assessment and potentially updating of its emergency action plan.
As a significant water resource in the region, William Dale provides valuable habitat for wildlife and serves as a recreational area for locals. With its historical significance and contribution to the ecosystem, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of climate change challenges.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
800 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BIG PRAIRIE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.17 |
Nid Storage |
123 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
William Dale Dam