Belcher Lake

TR.COOPER BRANCH· Shelby, Alabama· Built 1951· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Belcher Lake is classified as significant hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1951 and is 75 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length100 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage74 acre-ft
Normal Storage72 acre-ft
Max Discharge1,530 cfs
Year Completed1951 (75 years old)
NID IDAL01362

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
State Regulated: No

Ownership

BELCHER LAND AND TMB.CO.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Belcher Lake?

Belcher Lake is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Belcher Lake?

Belcher Lake is owned by BELCHER LAND AND TMB.CO. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Belcher Lake built?

Belcher Lake was completed in 1951, making it 75 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

What is the primary purpose of Belcher Lake?

Belcher Lake serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.