Vestavia Lake

TR-LITTLE SHADES CREEK· Jefferson, Alabama· Built 1950· Earth·
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Vestavia Lake 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 Length360 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage72 acre-ft
Normal Storage57 acre-ft
Max Discharge750 cfs
Year Completed1950 (76 years old)
NID IDAL01253

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

VESTAVIA LAKE CORP

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Vestavia Lake?

Vestavia Lake 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 Vestavia Lake?

Vestavia Lake is owned by VESTAVIA LAKE CORP (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Vestavia Lake built?

Vestavia Lake 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 Vestavia Lake?

Vestavia Lake 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.