James Brown Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

James Brown is a privately owned Earth dam located in DEMOPOLIS, Alabama, with a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.


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Summary

Built in 1990 by the USDA NRCS, this structure stands at a height of 16.2 feet and has a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 33 acres. The dam covers a surface area of 7 acres and has a low hazard potential, making it a vital resource for the local ecosystem.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, James Brown is designed to support fish and wildlife habitats, with a spillway width of 17 feet for controlled water release. Despite being classified as having a moderate risk assessment, the dam has not been rated for its condition, and its last inspection dates back to 1990. The structure plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area and is a key feature in the water resource management efforts in the region.

Congressional District 07, Alabama, represented by Terri A. Sewell (D), is home to James Brown, contributing to the conservation efforts in the state. With its strategic location and purpose, this dam serves as a valuable asset for both water resource management and climate enthusiasts interested in the sustainable development of aquatic ecosystems in Alabama.

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

16.2

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

59

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.