Watkins Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Watkins, also known as Wilborn, is a privately owned recreational dam located in St.


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Summary

Clair, Alabama. Completed in 1952, this arch-type dam stands at a structural height of 30 feet and has a hydraulic height of 30 feet as well. With a total length of 150 feet, Watkins provides a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and has a maximum discharge rate of 1410 cubic feet per second.

Situated on the TR Big Black Creek, Watkins offers a low hazard potential and has not been formally rated for its condition. While it currently does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, Watkins serves as a popular recreational spot for locals and visitors alike. With its scenic location and historical significance, Watkins remains a notable structure within the water resource and climate community.

Although Watkins may not have undergone recent inspections or have detailed risk management measures in place, it continues to stand as a testament to Alabama's water infrastructure. With its rich history and recreational purpose, Watkins embodies the blend of natural beauty and human engineering that characterizes our relationship with water resources. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, Watkins serves as a reminder of the importance of balancing conservation with access and enjoyment.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

150

River Or Stream

TR BIG BLACK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Hydraulic Height

30

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.