Summary
Completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and spans a length of 543 feet, with a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet. Situated on TR-ELLIS CREEK, the dam serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond creation, recreational activities, and irrigation for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Wells Dam has a low hazard potential and has not been rated for condition assessment as of the last inspection in 1994. Despite being state regulated, the dam has not undergone recent inspection or maintenance, raising concerns for potential risks and emergency preparedness. With a spillway width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 850 cubic feet per second, the dam's infrastructure and safety protocols may need to be updated to meet current standards and guidelines to ensure the protection of the local environment and community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wells Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned irrigation structure that plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region. With its diverse purposes and historical significance, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and assessment to address potential risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of this important infrastructure. As discussions around climate change and water management continue to evolve, the maintenance and safety of dams like Wells Dam will be crucial in adapting to the challenges of a changing environment.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
543 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR-ELLIS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
1.4 |
Nid Storage |
106 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Escambia River Near Century
|
3370cfs |
Big Coldwater Creek Nr Milton
|
399cfs |
Big Escambia Creek At Flomaton Al
|
515cfs |
Escambia River Nr Molino
|
2230cfs |
Conecuh River At State Hwy 41 Near Brewton
|
1880cfs |
Murder Creek At State Hwy 41 At Brewton
|
544cfs |
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.
Wells Dam
Oil Plant Road 5228-5234, Jay