Thomas Vann Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thomas Vann is a privately owned irrigation dam located in Limestone, Alabama, along the TR-Limestone Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1958 with a dam height of 20 feet and a length of 443 feet, it serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock maintenance, and recreation in addition to irrigation. Managed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam has a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet and a low hazard potential.

Despite being unregulated by the state, Thomas Vann poses a moderate risk level according to assessments. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 48 feet and can discharge up to 651 cubic feet per second. While no inspection frequency or condition assessment has been reported, the dam's emergency action plan status remains unknown. Congressman Mo Brooks represents the area in Congressional District 05, Alabama, where Thomas Vann plays a crucial role in water resource management and agricultural activities.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the significance of Thomas Vann in sustaining irrigation needs and supporting various recreational activities in the region. With its historical construction and ongoing maintenance by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this dam remains an essential infrastructure for the local community. As efforts to improve risk management and emergency preparedness continue, Thomas Vann stands as a testament to the vital role of water infrastructure in ensuring sustainable water use and environmental conservation in Alabama.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

443

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-LIMESTONE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.22

Nid Storage

106

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

20
       
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.