Cedar Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cedar Creek Dam, also known as Cedar Creek Reservoir, is a Federal-owned structure located in Franklin County, Alabama.


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Summary

Managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this earth dam was completed in 1979 with the primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a height of 96 feet and a structural height of 102 feet, Cedar Creek Dam has a storage capacity of 111,500 acre-feet and serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, recreation, and water supply.

Situated on the Cedar Creek river, the dam spans a length of 3,160 feet and covers a surface area of 3,450 acres. The reservoir created by Cedar Creek Dam has a normal storage capacity of 93,940 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 111,760 cubic feet per second. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates for water release. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Cedar Creek Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

Cedar Creek Dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region while also providing recreational opportunities and supporting water supply needs. Managed by TVA, this impressive structure stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the state of Alabama.

Years Modified

1997 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

3160

Dam Height

96

River Or Stream

CEDAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3450

Hydraulic Height

92

Drainage Area

179

Nid Storage

111500

Structural Height

102

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

102
       
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.