Dr John Kimbrough Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

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Summary

John Kimbrough is a private fish and wildlife pond located in Matthews, Montgomery, Alabama. Built in 1979 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at 16 feet high and spans 750 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 212 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.41 square miles, the dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreation.

Although Dr. John Kimbrough has a low hazard potential, it is classified as having a moderate risk level. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 70 feet to handle a maximum discharge of 455 cubic feet per second. Despite not having a condition rating, the dam has not been inspected recently and does not have an Emergency Action Plan prepared. With its location in the McDowell Creek watershed, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting wildlife in the area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Dr. John Kimbrough an intriguing structure due to its historical significance and ecological impact. As one of the many private dams in Alabama, it highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices and the role of private owners in maintaining critical water infrastructure. With its unique design and purpose, this dam serves as a valuable asset for both the local community and the surrounding environment.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

MCDOWELL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Drainage Area

0.41

Nid Storage

212

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
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.