Happy Valley Pond Dam

• Overview
• Reservoirs
• Rivers
• Fishing
• Boat Ramps
• Explore

Happy Valley Pond Dam, located in Elizabethtown, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation. With a hydraulic height of 11.5 feet and a structural height of 15.6 feet, this dam forms a 44-acre reservoir on Baldwin Branch. However, despite its recreational value, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high hazard potential, making it a concern for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

The dam, part of the Wilmington District, has a history of state regulation and inspection by the NC Dam Safety Program. Its last inspection in July 2020 raised alarms due to its poor condition, highlighting the need for immediate attention. Although the dam does not currently have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, there is a clear recognition of the potential risks associated with its condition.

For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, the deteriorating state of Happy Valley Pond Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring of critical infrastructure. As efforts are made to address the dam's deficiencies and ensure its safety, stakeholders must also consider the broader implications of failing to adequately maintain such structures in the face of changing climate patterns and increasing environmental stressors.