Walter Bouldin

Coosa River· Elmore, Alabama· Built 1967· Earth· 174 ft tall
High Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Walter Bouldin is classified as high hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 174 ft (taller than 99.7% in AL)
Dam Length11,178 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage48.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage48.0K acre-ft
Surface Area920 acres
Drainage Area10,165 sq mi
Year Completed1967 (59 years old)
NID IDAL01419

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: Yes
Last Inspection: April 5, 2023
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Alabama Power Company

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Walter Bouldin?

Walter Bouldin 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 Walter Bouldin?

Walter Bouldin is owned by Alabama Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Walter Bouldin built?

Walter Bouldin was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Walter Bouldin?

Walter Bouldin serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Walter Bouldin?

Walter Bouldin has a dam height of 174 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.

When was Walter Bouldin last inspected?

Walter Bouldin was last inspected on April 5, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

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.