Forrest Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Forrest Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 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 | 550 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 132 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 222 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 33 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3,200 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 132 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1952 (74 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1997 |
| NID ID | NC01133 |
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
Forest Lakes, Inc.
Private
Nearby Dams
Lake Clair Dam
Cumberland, NC
High HazardMirror Lake Dam
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High HazardTallywood Dam
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High HazardLake Walter Dam
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Low HazardMurray Hill Lake Dam
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Low HazardEvans Lake Dam
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High HazardSummertime Dam
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Forrest Lake Dam?
Forrest 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 Forrest Lake Dam?
Forrest Lake Dam is owned by Forest Lakes, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Forrest Lake Dam built?
Forrest 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 Forrest Lake Dam?
Forrest 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 Forrest Lake Dam last inspected?
Forrest Lake Dam was last inspected on March 28, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.