Fairfield Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Fairfield Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1890 and is 136 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 | 396 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 183 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,323 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1890 (136 years old) |
| NID ID | NC01198 |
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
Capital Vacations
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 Capital Vacations (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 1890, making it 136 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 December 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.