Thorton No 2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thorton No 2 is a privately owned earth dam located in Mayes Crossroads, Alabama.


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Summary

Built in 1963, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond, as well as recreational activities. With a hydraulic height of 21 feet and a length of 965 feet, Thorton No 2 has a storage capacity of 325 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 759 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not yet rated for condition assessment, Thorton No 2 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Situated on TR Dry Creek and under the jurisdiction of the Mobile District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam provides essential water supply for various uses while also contributing to the local ecosystem. The surrounding area, including Etowah County, benefits from the recreational opportunities and fire protection provided by Thorton No 2.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, Thorton No 2 stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices. While the dam has not been inspected recently and lacks certain emergency preparedness measures, its role in supporting the community and maintaining water security cannot be overstated. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is vital to monitor and advocate for the upkeep and improvement of structures like Thorton No 2 to ensure the resilience of our water systems in the face of a changing climate.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

965

River Or Stream

TR DRY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

325

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

21
       
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.