Weiss - Main Dam
Key Takeaway
Weiss - Main Dam is classified as high hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 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 | 86 ft (taller than 97.8% in AL) |
| Dam Length | 19,253 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 306.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 306.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 30,200 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5,273 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 350,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1961 (65 years old) |
| NID ID | AL01415 |
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
Alabama Power Company
Public Utility
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Weiss - Main Dam?
Weiss - Main 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 Weiss - Main Dam?
Weiss - Main Dam is owned by Alabama Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Weiss - Main Dam built?
Weiss - Main Dam was completed in 1961, making it 65 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 Weiss - Main Dam?
Weiss - Main Dam serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Weiss - Main Dam?
Weiss - Main Dam has a dam height of 86 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 Weiss - Main Dam last inspected?
Weiss - Main Dam was last inspected on October 26, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.