Buck Horn Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Beaver Lake Lake Tholocco
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Buck Horn Lake, located in Daleville, Alabama, is a Federal-owned reservoir managed by the US Army for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The earth dam, standing at a height of 26 feet and with a length of 700 feet, was completed in 1942 and has a storage capacity of 172 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 17 acres and is primarily used for recreation, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Despite being classified with a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Buck Horn Lake lacks recent condition assessments and emergency preparedness information. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and outlet gates including a slide gate and uncontrolled mechanisms. The reservoir does not fall under state jurisdiction for regulation, permitting, inspection, or enforcement, with oversight primarily managed by the US Army.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Buck Horn Lake provides a unique opportunity to explore a historic earth dam and reservoir in Alabama. With its picturesque setting and recreational offerings, this Federal-owned lake serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and longevity of our water resources in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1942 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
26 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
172 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate), Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Choctawhatchee River Near Newton
|
632cfs |
Choctawhatchee River Near Bellwood Al
|
1210cfs |
Little Double Bridges Creek Nr Enterprise
|
10cfs |
Pea River Near Ariton Al
|
906cfs |
Choctawhatchee River Nr Pittman
|
2720cfs |
Pea River Near Samson Al
|
1250cfs |
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.
Buck Horn Lake