Owen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelson Park Dam Burlington Mills Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Owen Dam, located in Caroleen, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation along the 2nd Broad River-Tr.
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Summary
With a structural height of 29.4 feet and a hydraulic height of 23 feet, Owen Dam provides a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 1.5 acres. Despite not being regulated by the state, the dam has been inspected and deemed to have a significant hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition as of its last assessment in March 2013.
The dam, constructed as an earth-type structure, was completed in a year that is not specified in the available data. While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, it does not hold any locks and has not been significantly modified over the years. Even though the dam is not under the jurisdiction of federal agencies, it falls under the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Notably, the dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are not detailed in the provided information.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Owen Dam can appreciate its role in providing recreational opportunities in the area while acknowledging the importance of regular inspections to ensure public safety. The dam's location along the 2nd Broad River-Tr contributes to the local water ecosystem and demonstrates the integration of human-made structures with natural waterways. As a privately owned and operated facility, Owen Dam serves as a reminder of the diverse landscape of water resource management in North Carolina, showcasing both the benefits and risks associated with dam infrastructure.
Dam Length |
213 |
River Or Stream |
2nd Broad River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Structural Height |
29.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Second Broad River Nr Logan
|
64cfs |
Broad River Near Boiling Springs
|
623cfs |
First Broad River Near Casar
|
53cfs |
Pacolet River Near Fingerville
|
106cfs |
North Pacolet River At Fingerville
|
113cfs |
Cove Creek Near Lake Lure
|
64cfs |
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.
Owen Dam