Walden Pond Dam #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Walden Pond Dam #3, located in Marvin, North Carolina, is a privately-owned earth dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1996, the dam stands at a structural height of 19.3 feet and has a hydraulic height of 12 feet, providing a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 50 acre-feet. The dam's location on the Tarkhill Branch-Os river stream adds to its scenic beauty and recreational value, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of December 2019, Walden Pond Dam #3 has a high hazard potential, emphasizing the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, ensuring that state permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks. With its close proximity to the community and surrounding natural areas, the dam plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities while also being essential for flood control and water resource management in the region.

As a focal point for outdoor activities and environmental appreciation, Walden Pond Dam #3 holds significant importance for the local community and visitors. Its role in water management and conservation efforts in Union County contributes to the overall sustainability of the region, making it a valuable asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate. With proper oversight and maintenance, the dam continues to serve its intended purposes while enhancing the natural beauty of its surroundings.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

230

River Or Stream

Tarkhill Branch-Os

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

1155

Nid Storage

111

Structural Height

19.3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

19
       
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.
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