Waites Dam
Key Takeaway
Waites Dam is classified as high hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. 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 | 15 ft (taller than 31.9% in AL) |
| Dam Length | 543 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 44 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 30 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 420 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1965 (61 years old) |
| NID ID | AL01753 |
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
JACK WAITES
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Waites Dam?
Waites 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 Waites Dam?
Waites Dam is owned by JACK WAITES (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Waites Dam built?
Waites Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Waites Dam?
Waites Dam serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Waites Dam?
Waites Dam has a dam height of 15 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.