Martin
Key Takeaway
Martin is classified as high hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1926 and is 100 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 Height | 168 ft (taller than 99.6% in AL) |
| Dam Length | 2,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 1.6M acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.6M acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 40,000 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3,000 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 302,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1926 (100 years old) |
| NID ID | AL01425 |
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
Alabama Power Company
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Martin?
Martin 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 Martin?
Martin is owned by Alabama Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Martin built?
Martin was completed in 1926, making it 100 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 Martin?
Martin serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation, Water Supply, Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Martin?
Martin has a dam height of 168 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.
When was Martin last inspected?
Martin was last inspected on June 2, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.