Ashe Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Ashe Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 362 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 302 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 31 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3,355 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00240 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Ashe Lake Property Owners
Private
Nearby Dams
Indian Lake Dam
Ashe, NC
High HazardGimlin Dam
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High HazardMash Dam
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Significant HazardFleetwood Falls Lake Dam
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High HazardFlat Rock Pond Dam
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High HazardKoa Campground Dam
Wilkes, NC
High HazardAl Beshears Dam
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High HazardLong Hope Club Dam
Ashe, NC
High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Ashe Lake Dam?
Ashe Lake Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Ashe Lake Dam?
Ashe Lake Dam is owned by Ashe Lake Property Owners (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Ashe Lake Dam built?
Ashe Lake Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Ashe Lake Dam?
Ashe Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Ashe Lake Dam last inspected?
Ashe Lake Dam was last inspected on May 19, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.