Fair Lake Dam

Gum Swamp Creek· Scotland, North Carolina· Built 1952· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Fair Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length521 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage54 acre-ft
Normal Storage45 acre-ft
Surface Area8 acres
Drainage Area1,401 sq mi
Max Discharge43 cfs
Year Completed1952 (74 years old)
NID IDNC01092

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: December 14, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Blanch Blue Fair

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Fair Lake Dam?

Fair Lake Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Fair Lake Dam?

Fair Lake Dam is owned by Blanch Blue Fair (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Fair Lake Dam built?

Fair Lake Dam was completed in 1952, making it 74 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 Fair Lake Dam?

Fair 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 Fair Lake Dam last inspected?

Fair Lake Dam was last inspected on December 14, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.