Lake Catoma Dam

EIGHT MILE CREEK· Cullman, Alabama· Built 1966· Rockfill·
High Hazard Recreation Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Lake Catoma Dam is classified as high hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 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 Length1,800 ft
Dam TypeRockfill
Max Storage21.4K acre-ft
Normal Storage15.0K acre-ft
Max Discharge35,360 cfs
Year Completed1966 (60 years old)
NID IDAL00977

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

CULLMAN CITY OF

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Catoma Dam?

Lake Catoma 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 Lake Catoma Dam?

Lake Catoma Dam is owned by CULLMAN CITY OF (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lake Catoma Dam built?

Lake Catoma Dam was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Lake Catoma Dam?

Lake Catoma 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.

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.