Mckay Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Mckay Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1950 and is 76 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 | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 233 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 153 acre-ft |
| Max Discharge | 795 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1950 (76 years old) |
| NID ID | AL01184 |
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
W.L. HERRINGTON
Private
Nearby Dams
Sugarland Lake Dam
Blount, AL
High HazardWill Engle Dam
Blount, AL
High HazardHighland Lake
Blount, AL
High HazardVandegrift Pond Dam
Blount, AL
High HazardMcpherson Dam
Blount, AL
Low Hazard 25 ftCarl Wittichen
St. Clair, AL
Significant Hazard 17 ftDr. Patton@S Lake
Blount, AL
Low HazardDr. Pattons Lower Lake Dam
Blount, AL
Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Mckay Lake Dam?
Mckay Lake 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 Mckay Lake Dam?
Mckay Lake Dam is owned by W.L. HERRINGTON (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mckay Lake Dam built?
Mckay Lake Dam was completed in 1950, making it 76 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 Mckay Lake Dam?
Mckay 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.