Jordan Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Grassy Knob Acres Dam Metcalf Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Jordan Dam, located in Columbus, North Carolina, is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 21 feet and a hydraulic height of 15.6 feet, with a length of 495 feet. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 8 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 25 acre-feet, making it a significant water resource in the area.
Managed by the Polk-014 state agency and regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, Jordan Dam is inspected biennially to ensure its fair condition and mitigate any potential hazards. Despite its modest size, the dam's location on the Ut to Walnut Creek river system provides essential recreational opportunities for the local community. With its picturesque surroundings and potential for outdoor activities, Jordan Dam serves as a vital water resource and climate enthusiast destination in Polk County.
In the event of emergencies, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are crucial for ensuring public safety. As a significant structure with a hazard potential, regular maintenance and adherence to safety guidelines are essential to prevent any potential risks and to continue providing a safe and enjoyable recreational experience for visitors. Jordan Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, recreation, and climate resilience in the heart of North Carolina.
Year Completed |
1979 |
Dam Length |
495 |
River Or Stream |
Ut to Walnut Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
15.6 |
Nid Storage |
25 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Jordan Dam