Ech Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Fort Rucker, Alabama, Ech Lake is a federal-owned reservoir managed by the US Army for recreation purposes.


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Summary

The earth dam, with a height of 25 feet and a length of 450 feet, was completed in 1942 and has a maximum storage capacity of 83 acre-feet. With a surface area of 7 acres, Ech Lake offers a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and enjoy various outdoor activities.

Despite being categorized as having low hazard potential, Ech Lake is subject to moderate risk assessment due to its age and condition assessment not being available. The reservoir features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates for water management. While the inspection frequency is set at four times a year, the last inspection was conducted in February 2018. The risk management measures and emergency action plans for Ech Lake are currently not available, highlighting the need for improved preparedness and guidelines compliance.

Overall, Ech Lake serves as a valuable recreational resource in Dale County, Alabama, attracting visitors with its picturesque setting and opportunities for outdoor recreation. As efforts continue to assess and mitigate potential risks associated with the dam and reservoir, it remains imperative to prioritize safety and maintenance to ensure the long-term sustainability of this beloved water resource for future generations of enthusiasts to enjoy.

Year Completed

1942

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

25

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

83

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

25
       
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.