Terpin Vise Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Terpin Vise, also known as Salt Water Pond #1, is a privately owned fish and wildlife pond located in Wedgeworth, Alabama.


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Summary

Built in 1971 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam structure stands at a height of 12 feet and spans a length of 2700 feet, with a storage capacity of 209 acre-feet. Situated on TR-Big Brush Creek, Terpin Vise serves as a low hazard potential water resource that contributes to the conservation and management of the surrounding natural ecosystem.

Despite its low hazard potential, Terpin Vise has been classified as having a moderate risk assessment (level 3) due to certain factors that may impact its structural integrity. The dam has not been inspected since October 1978, and its condition remains unrated. While it lacks a formal Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps, the pond continues to play a vital role in supporting fish and wildlife habitats in the area. With its uncontrolled spillway and emphasis on conservation, Terpin Vise stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Terpin Vise represents a unique intersection of human intervention and natural ecosystems. As a privately owned structure with a focus on fish and wildlife preservation, this earth dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship. Its location in Hale County, Alabama, along with its association with the USDA NRCS, underscores the collaborative efforts needed to protect and sustainably manage water resources in the face of evolving climate challenges.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

2700

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

TR-BIG BRUSH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

209

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

12
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds

Location Reservations Toilets
Terpin ViseJennings Ferry Preview Jennings Ferry
Terpin ViseLock 7 Preview Lock 7
Terpin ViseLock 8 Preview Lock 8