Lake Wedowee began in November, 1974 with the construction of R. L. Harris Dam. The dam was named after Rother L. “Judge” Harris who was Power Director and President of electrical operations for Alabama Power with over 45 years of service. The R.L. Harris Dam was put into service April, 1983 becoming the fourteenth dam operated by Alabama Power. The two rivers that flow into Lake Wedowee are the Little Tallapoosa and the Tallapoosa (locally called the Big River). These rivers originate across the Georgia state line and join at the Hwy 48 bridge. Lake Wedowee spans 10,660 acres; it’s 24 miles long and has a 271 mile shoreline. When the lake is at full capacity, it is 793 feet above sea level. Alabama Power Company controls lake levels and typically raises the lake level by early to mid April. Lake depth reaches a maximum of approximately 150 feet. The lake is known for its crystal waters, although long periods of rain will temporarily stain the area near the upper end of both rivers.

R.L. Harris Dam and Lake Wedowee have many functions other than power generation. Lake Wedowee serves as a wonderful recreational area, provides flood control, drinking water, and is a habitat for fish and wildlife. Lake Wedowee, Alabama’s best kept secret.