Talking Rock Creek Watershed Str #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Talking Rock Creek Watershed Str #4 is a state-owned earth dam located in the Highway 156 Community of Pickens, Georgia.


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Summary

Built in 1966 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this structure stands at a height of 52 feet and spans 431 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, specifically protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation by the Little Scarecorn Creek.

Despite its low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, Talking Rock Creek Watershed Str #4 has not been rated for its condition as of the last inspection in June 2016. The dam features uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates, with a drainage area of 1200 acres and a normal storage capacity of 66 acre-feet. While the structure currently meets regulatory requirements for inspection and enforcement by the state, there is a lack of information regarding emergency action plans and risk management measures. For enthusiasts of water resources and climate, this dam serves as a critical component in the flood control infrastructure of the region, highlighting the intersection of human-built structures with natural hydrological systems.

Year Completed

1966

Dam Length

431

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

LITTLE SCARECORN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Drainage Area

1200

Nid Storage

350

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

52
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.