Tryon Estates Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Tryon Estates Dam, located in Columbus, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1993 for recreational purposes.
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Summary
With a hydraulic height of 20.7 feet and a structural height of 25.7 feet, the dam spans 212 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. Situated on UT to Horse Creek, the dam serves as a recreational hub with a surface area of 9.1 acres and a drainage area of 302 acres, providing a tranquil retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Managed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, Tryon Estates Dam is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance. The dam has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in September 2017, with a satisfactory condition assessment. Despite its minimal risk, the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment information remain unspecified, suggesting a need for updated emergency preparedness measures and risk management strategies to address potential hazards.
As a vital water resource structure in Polk County, Tryon Estates Dam plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem and community's recreational activities. With its serene surroundings and safe infrastructure, the dam offers a peaceful retreat for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of nature while also highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in safeguarding our environment for future generations.
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
212 |
River Or Stream |
UT to Horse Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
20.7 |
Drainage Area |
302 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Structural Height |
25.7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
26 |
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.
Tryon Estates Dam