Sand Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nash Dam Schmitt Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Sand Lake, located in Vandiver, Alabama, is a private water resource primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
The dam at Sand Lake is an earth dam, standing at a height of 13 feet and spanning a length of 270 feet. With a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet, the lake covers a surface area of 14 acres and is fed by the Shoal Creek I Trib 9. Despite its modest size, Sand Lake holds a high hazard potential, making it crucial for proper management and maintenance.
While Sand Lake is not state-regulated or permitted, it still poses a risk due to its high hazard potential. The dam's condition is currently not rated, highlighting the need for regular inspections and risk assessments to ensure the safety of the surrounding community. With its proximity to Congressional District 06 and the oversight of Representative Gary J. Palmer, the management of Sand Lake falls under the responsibility of private owners, emphasizing the importance of proactive stewardship to prevent potential hazards and maintain the lake's recreational value for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
In the absence of state regulation or enforcement, the responsibility for the maintenance and safety of Sand Lake falls on its private owners. With its high hazard potential and lack of a current condition assessment, it is crucial for the owners to prioritize regular inspections and risk assessments to mitigate any potential dangers. As a cherished recreational spot in Shelby, Alabama, Sand Lake serves as a valuable resource for water enthusiasts, highlighting the need for sustainable management practices to safeguard its future and preserve its natural beauty for generations to come.
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
SHOAL CREEK I TRIB 9 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14 |
Nid Storage |
101 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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