W L Golden Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

W L Golden is a privately owned recreational dam located in Golden Grove, Alabama, along the TR Dry Creek.


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Summary

The dam, primarily used for recreation and water supply, was completed in 1952 and has a maximum storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. With a hydraulic height of 26 feet and a structural height of 30 feet, W L Golden offers a serene setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore.

Managed by the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, W L Golden has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as 'Not Rated' in terms of condition assessment. Despite its age, the dam remains a popular spot for outdoor activities and serves as a vital water supply source for the surrounding area. The dam's location in St. Clair County, Alabama, adds to its charm and accessibility for visitors seeking to appreciate the beauty of nature in a controlled environment.

Although W L Golden has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain infrastructure such as spillways and locks, it continues to be a well-maintained site for recreational purposes. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment information are currently unknown, but its historical significance and contribution to the local water supply make it an essential landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts to visit in the heart of Alabama.

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

230

River Or Stream

TR DRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

90

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.