Big Creek Lake

BIG CREEK· Mobile, Alabama· Built 1952· Earth·
High Hazard Recreation Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Big Creek Lake is classified as high hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length5,000 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage136.5K acre-ft
Normal Storage105.0K acre-ft
Max Discharge35,000 cfs
Year Completed1952 (74 years old)
NID IDAL00017

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

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

MOBILE WATER BOARD CITY

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Big Creek Lake?

Big Creek Lake is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Big Creek Lake?

Big Creek Lake is owned by MOBILE WATER BOARD CITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Big Creek Lake built?

Big Creek Lake was completed in 1952, making it 74 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 Big Creek Lake?

Big Creek Lake serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. 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.