John Hollis Bankhead Lock and Dam
Key Takeaway
John Hollis Bankhead Lock and Dam is classified as high hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1975 and is 51 years old. Its primary use is navigation. 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 | 1,310 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 296.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 269.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 9,245 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3,981 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 666,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1975 (51 years old) |
| NID ID | AL01427 |
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
USACE - Mobile District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of John Hollis Bankhead Lock and Dam?
John Hollis Bankhead Lock and 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 John Hollis Bankhead Lock and Dam?
John Hollis Bankhead Lock and Dam is owned by USACE - Mobile District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was John Hollis Bankhead Lock and Dam built?
John Hollis Bankhead Lock and Dam was completed in 1975, making it 51 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 John Hollis Bankhead Lock and Dam?
John Hollis Bankhead Lock and Dam serves the following purposes: Navigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was John Hollis Bankhead Lock and Dam last inspected?
John Hollis Bankhead Lock and Dam was last inspected on July 22, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.