Walters Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Walters is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Haywood, North Carolina, along the Pigeon River.
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Summary
Built in 1929, this arch-type dam stands tall at 185 feet with a structural height of 207.5 feet, providing a storage capacity of 17,000 acre-feet. With a spillway width of 336 feet and a maximum discharge of 68,000 cubic feet per second, Walters serves as a crucial water resource for the region. Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, this dam plays a vital role in the generation of hydroelectric power.
Despite its age, Walters remains a key player in the water resource management landscape, boasting a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. With 14 Tainter radial outlet gates, this dam is equipped for emergency situations to ensure the safety of the surrounding communities. Although the condition assessment is not available, regular inspections by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission ensure that Walters meets the necessary safety standards. The dam's location in Waterville, its scenic surroundings, and its historical significance make it a must-visit destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.
In the face of climate change and increasing water scarcity, dams like Walters play a crucial role in meeting the water and energy needs of the growing population. With its controlled spillway and rock foundation, this multi-arch dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing the power of flowing water. As discussions around water resource management and climate adaptation intensify, Walters serves as a shining example of sustainable infrastructure that balances the needs of both humans and the environment.
Year Completed |
1929 |
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
185 |
River Or Stream |
Pigeon |
Primary Dam Type |
Arch |
Surface Area |
359 |
Hydraulic Height |
178 |
Drainage Area |
455 |
Nid Storage |
17000 |
Structural Height |
207.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 14 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
208 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cataloochee Creek Near Cataloochee
|
54cfs |
Pigeon River Near Hepco
|
332cfs |
Pigeon R Bl Power Plant Nr Waterville
|
172cfs |
Pigeon River Near Canton
|
124cfs |
W Fk Pigeon R At Bethel
|
64cfs |
French Broad River At Hot Springs
|
1220cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Dual Sport
|
||
Cataloochee Group Camp
|
||
#38 Mount Sterling
|
||
38
|
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Cataloochee Campground
|
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Cataloochee - Great Smoky Mountains
|
Walters