William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam

Black Warrier· Tuscaloosa, Alabama· Built 1992· Gravity·
Significant Hazard Fish And Wildlife Pond Federal Government

Key Takeaway

William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam is classified as significant hazard in Alabama. It was completed in 1992 and is 34 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length1,200 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage13.8K acre-ft
Normal Storage12.3K acre-ft
Surface Area790 acres
Drainage Area4,821 sq mi
Max Discharge52,000 cfs
Year Completed1992 (34 years old)
NID IDAL01981

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: Yes
Last Inspection: June 14, 2023
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Mobile District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam?

William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam 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 William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam?

William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam is owned by USACE - Mobile District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam built?

William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam was completed in 1992, making it 34 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 William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam?

William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam last inspected?

William Bacon Oliver Lock and Dam was last inspected on June 14, 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.