Fairfield Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Fairfield Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1964 and is 62 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 | 600 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 276 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 230 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 23 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,805 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 330 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1964 (62 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00592 |
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
Selco, Inc.
Private
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Fairfield Lake Dam?
Fairfield 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 Fairfield Lake Dam?
Fairfield Lake Dam is owned by Selco, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Fairfield Lake Dam built?
Fairfield Lake Dam was completed in 1964, making it 62 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 Fairfield Lake Dam?
Fairfield 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 Fairfield Lake Dam last inspected?
Fairfield Lake Dam was last inspected on September 29, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.