Duck River Reservoir will soon reach its next milestone in becoming a lasting water source for the Cullman area.

The final installation of pipes that will carry water from Duck River is expected to be completed in November, which will be followed by advertising for bids for the all-important pumps.

“Our goal is to have the bids by the end of the year. The drawings and design are completed, so at this point everything is on schedule, and the rain has kept the reservoir at a good level,” said Cullman Power Board Director Mike Manning.

Officials are also awaiting the results of extensive water testing that is required by the Environmental Protection Agency, and Manning said the early indication is that a positive report will be returned.

“We can expect to receive the certification on the water quality within a few months. All of the water testing has been very good,” he said.

The new year will be the final leg in Duck River’s journey to become an active water source. Late 2019 is the goal to have the pumps installed and sending water into the pipes.

The 650-acre reservoir has been in a testing period throughout the year.

Located six miles east of the Cullman water treatment plant, the reservoir is designed to meet the water needs of Cullman residents for the next 75 years or longer. Once completed, the reservoir will be capable of pumping 24 million gallons of water per day.

The $100-million-dollar construction project features a dam spanning 2,000 feet long and 135 feet high.

Earlier this year, officials opened the recreation area with fishing and trails for residents to enjoy. The area includes 20-plus miles of biking and walking trails.

Annual permits are required in order to fish at the lake, but the permits are free. Until further notice, bass fishing is permitted on a catch-and-release-only basis, while there’s a 30-catch maximum for crappie (limited to 9’’ and longer) and a 20-catch maximum for bream (with no size limit). Boat access is limited to craft equipped with 25 hp motors, or smaller.

The lake also has been stocked with channel catfish, though the population has not yet matured sufficiently to permit catfish fishing.

A separate access point for the reservoir’s trails, as well as a second boat ramp, lies at the West Side public boat launch and parking area off County Road 1651. 

David Palmer may be contacted at 256-734-2131, ext. 116.