Cochran Lake

POWELL CREEK· Marengo, Alabama· Built 1961· Earth· 13 ft tall

Key Takeaway

Cochran Lake is classified as significant hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 13 ft (taller than 20.9% in AL)
Dam Length525 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage65 acre-ft
Normal Storage41 acre-ft
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Max Discharge260 cfs
Year Completed1961 (65 years old)
NID IDAL02448

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

ELLIS COCHRAN

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Cochran Lake?

Cochran 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 Cochran Lake?

Cochran Lake is owned by ELLIS COCHRAN (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Cochran Lake built?

Cochran Lake was completed in 1961, making it 65 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 Cochran Lake?

Cochran Lake serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Fire Protection, Stock, Or Small Fish Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Cochran Lake?

Cochran Lake has a dam height of 13 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

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.