Turpin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Turpin Dam, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure primarily built for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a structural height of 18 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet, with a length of 440 feet. It has a storage capacity of 50.4 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor activities along the Walker Creek-Tr river.

Despite being state-inspected, Turpin Dam is classified as having a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment as of the last inspection date in October 2016. The dam does not have a designated emergency action plan, and no risk assessment or management measures have been documented. While the dam does not fall under USACE ownership, it plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for the local community and visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Turpin Dam offers a fascinating intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship. Its presence along the Walker Creek-Tr river not only provides recreational benefits but also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing water resources for human use and ensuring the safety and sustainability of these structures for future generations. As efforts to address climate change and water management continue to evolve, Turpin Dam stands as a symbol of the importance of responsible dam construction and maintenance practices in safeguarding our natural resources.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

440

River Or Stream

Walker Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

59

Nid Storage

50.4

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.