Recognizing Wilson Dam on its 100th Anniversary

Floor Speech

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Mr. ADERHOLT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge a special anniversary in Alabama's 4th Congressional District. One hundred years ago, on September 12, 1925, Wilson Dam began commercial operations. As a part of the Tennessee Valley Authority's network of hydroelectric dams, Wilson Dam supports TVA's mission of providing low-cost, reliable power, flood control, and navigation of the Tennessee River. Over the past 100 years, Wilson Dam has powered communities, enabled river commerce, and driven economic growth throughout the Tennessee Valley.

Located in Florence, Alabama, Wilson Dam has 21 generating units, capable of producing up to 663 megawatts of electricity and powering over 350,000 homes and businesses in north Alabama.

Wilson Dam is a National Historic Landmark and an engineering feat. It stretches nearly a mile--more than 4,500 feet--across the Tennessee River. The site plays a crucial role in the movement of goods through our country. The main lock has a maximum lift of 100 feet, making it the highest single-life lock east of the Rockies. More than 3,700 vessels on average and 11.4 million tons of goods pass through Wilson Dam's locks each year.

The associated Wilson Dam Reservoir includes over 160 miles of shoreline and covers 15,500 acres, providing ample opportunities for recreation. This makes North Alabama a destination for those looking to fish, boat, kayak, and enjoy our beautiful state, while driving economic activity and jobs in Alabama.

In a testament to the role Wilson Dam plays in the system, TVA is in the process of extending the life of the plant for decades. As part of the Hydro Life Extension Program TVA is refurbishing units to improve dam safety and increase hydro generation output. Wilson Dam has fulfilled--and continues to fulfill--TVA's mission statement of serving the people of the Valley region.

I hope my fellow Alabamians will join me in celebrating all that Wilson Dam has done for our state, and our region, for one hundred years. Here's to the next 100.

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