Sweet Water

LEWIS BRANCH· Marengo, Alabama· Built 1966· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Sweet Water is classified as significant hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length655 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage116 acre-ft
Normal Storage108 acre-ft
Max Discharge700 cfs
Year Completed1966 (60 years old)
NID IDAL00120

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

S FORD LEWIS

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Sweet Water?

Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water?

Sweet Water is owned by S FORD LEWIS (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Sweet Water built?

Sweet Water 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 Sweet Water?

Sweet Water 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.