Farley Cat I Cool Water Storage Pond Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Located in Houston County, Alabama, the Farley Cat I Cool Water Storage Pond is a vital component of the cooling system for the Farley Nuclear Plant.
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Summary
Completed in 1976, this earth dam structure stands at 195 feet high and stretches 3,900 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 2,674 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1,721 acre-feet. The pond covers a surface area of 95 acres and is situated along the Chattahoochee River, under the jurisdiction of the US NRC.
This cooling water storage pond plays a crucial role in maintaining the optimal operating conditions for the Farley Nuclear Plant, ensuring efficient cooling of its systems. With a low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the pond is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 48 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 2,020 cubic feet per second. Although not regulated by the state, the pond is subject to inspections by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to ensure its continued safe operation.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the engineering marvel of the Farley Cat I Cool Water Storage Pond, which serves as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing water for industrial purposes while maintaining environmental sustainability. As a key component of the Farley Nuclear Plant's infrastructure, the pond exemplifies the intersection of technology, energy production, and water resource management in a complex and interconnected system. Its moderate risk assessment rating underscores the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to uphold safety standards and protect the surrounding community and ecosystem.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
3900 |
Dam Height |
195 |
River Or Stream |
CHATTAHOOCHEE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
95 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
2674 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
195 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sawhatchee Creek At Cedar Springs
|
34cfs |
Spring Creek Near Iron City
|
26cfs |
Spring Creek Near Reynoldsville
|
228cfs |
Choctawhatchee River Near Newton
|
632cfs |
Chipola River At Marianna Fl
|
212cfs |
Pachitla Creek Near Edison
|
294cfs |
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.
Farley Cat I Cool Water Storage Pond
Chattahoochee River Near Columbia