Cascade Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Cascade Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1919 and is 107 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 240 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 2.3K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 2.3K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 64 acres |
| Drainage Area | 26,608 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 50,778 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1919 (107 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1992 |
| NID ID | NC00340 |
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
Cascade Power Company
Public Utility
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cascade Lake Dam?
Cascade 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 Cascade Lake Dam?
Cascade Lake Dam is owned by Cascade Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cascade Lake Dam built?
Cascade Lake Dam was completed in 1919, making it 107 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 Cascade Lake Dam?
Cascade Lake Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Cascade Lake Dam last inspected?
Cascade Lake Dam was last inspected on February 8, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.