Beaver Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Beaver Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1926 and is 100 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 | 380 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 996 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 728 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 60 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5,705 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1926 (100 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2011 |
| NID ID | NC00291 |
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
The Lake View Park Commission, Inc.
Private
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Beaver Lake Dam?
Beaver 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 Beaver Lake Dam?
Beaver Lake Dam is owned by The Lake View Park Commission, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Beaver Lake Dam built?
Beaver Lake Dam was completed in 1926, making it 100 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 Beaver Lake Dam?
Beaver 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 Beaver Lake Dam last inspected?
Beaver Lake Dam was last inspected on March 16, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.