Robert Free #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Robert Free #2 is a private earth dam located in Orrville, Alabama, on the BIG SWAMP river or stream.


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Summary

Built in 1998 by the USDA NRCS, this dam stands at a height of 13.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 85.05 acre-feet. With a surface area of 9 acres and a drainage area of 0.06 square miles, this dam serves a primary purpose of "Other."

Although the dam's hazard potential is considered "Significant" and its risk assessment is rated as "Moderate," the condition assessment is marked as "Not Rated." The dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 25 feet, and no locks associated with it. Despite its risk level, the dam has not been inspected recently, with no inspection frequency recorded. While the dam's emergency action plan status and preparedness remain unknown, it is essential to monitor and maintain this structure to ensure the safety of the surrounding area and water resources.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Robert Free #2 presents an intriguing case study in dam management and risk assessment. With its significant hazard potential and moderate risk level, this private dam in Alabama warrants attention and further inspection to ensure its structural integrity and the safety of the community it serves. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding and mitigating the risks associated with dams like Robert Free #2 is crucial for sustainable water management practices.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

13.7

River Or Stream

BIG SWAMP

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Drainage Area

0.06

Nid Storage

85.05

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

14
       
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.