Mchugh Lake Dam

DUSTY BRANCH· Dallas, Alabama· Built 1954· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Mchugh Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1954 and is 72 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length600 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage270 acre-ft
Normal Storage260 acre-ft
Max Discharge840 cfs
Year Completed1954 (72 years old)
NID IDAL00677

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

J I MCHUGH

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Mchugh Lake Dam?

Mchugh Lake Dam 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 Mchugh Lake Dam?

Mchugh Lake Dam is owned by J I MCHUGH (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Mchugh Lake Dam built?

Mchugh Lake Dam was completed in 1954, making it 72 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 Mchugh Lake Dam?

Mchugh Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. 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.