Fort Payne Dam
Key Takeaway
Fort Payne Dam is classified as high hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1971 and is 55 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 Length | 1,085 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 579 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 13,020 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1971 (55 years old) |
| NID ID | AL01205 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
CITY OF FORT PAYNE ALA.
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fort Payne Dam?
Fort Payne Dam 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 Fort Payne Dam?
Fort Payne Dam is owned by CITY OF FORT PAYNE ALA. (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fort Payne Dam built?
Fort Payne Dam was completed in 1971, making it 55 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 Fort Payne Dam?
Fort Payne Dam 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.