Echo Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Echo Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1966 and is 60 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 | 250 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 185 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 130 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 305 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 556 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1966 (60 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2001 |
| NID ID | NC00286 |
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
Echo Lake Front Property Owners, Inc.
Private
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Echo Lake Dam?
Echo 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 Echo Lake Dam?
Echo Lake Dam is owned by Echo Lake Front Property Owners, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Echo Lake Dam built?
Echo Lake Dam was completed in 1966, making it 60 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 Echo Lake Dam?
Echo 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 Echo Lake Dam last inspected?
Echo Lake Dam was last inspected on April 18, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.