Forest Lake Dam

UT to 2nd Broad River· Rutherford, North Carolina· Built 1963· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation State Government

Key Takeaway

Forest Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length475 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage200 acre-ft
Normal Storage160 acre-ft
Surface Area10 acres
Year Completed1963 (63 years old)
NID IDNC00136

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: No
Last Inspection: April 5, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

NC Department of Transportation

State Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Forest Lake Dam?

Forest 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 Forest Lake Dam?

Forest Lake Dam is owned by NC Department of Transportation (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Forest Lake Dam built?

Forest Lake Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Forest Lake Dam?

Forest 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 Forest Lake Dam last inspected?

Forest Lake Dam was last inspected on April 5, 2021. 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.