Townes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Townes Dam, also known as Bee Townes Dam, is a privately-owned structure located in Wilkesboro, North Carolina.


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Summary

Built in 1986 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 24 feet and spans 307 feet across Tr- Little Warrior Creek. Its primary purpose is for irrigation, with additional functions including fish and wildlife pond and recreation. The dam has a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 164 cubic feet per second.

With a hazard potential rated as significant and a moderate risk assessment, Townes Dam is of interest to water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 20 feet, and it features uncontrolled outlet gates. Despite the lack of available condition assessment data, the dam undergoes inspections every 3 years. While the risk management measures and emergency action plan details are currently not available, the structure's location and design make it a key player in the water management system of the area.

Overall, Townes Dam serves as a crucial infrastructure for irrigation and water supply in the region, showcasing a blend of engineering expertise and natural resource conservation. Its association with the USDA NRCS ensures responsible management and maintenance practices. As water resources continue to face challenges due to climate change, the significance of structures like Townes Dam in ensuring water security and environmental sustainability cannot be overstated.

Year Completed

1986

Dam Length

307

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Tr- Little Warrior Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Drainage Area

0.12

Nid Storage

40

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.