Hickory Nut Lower Dam

Broad River· Rutherford, North Carolina· Built 1974· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Hickory Nut Lower Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length250 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage240 acre-ft
Normal Storage140 acre-ft
Surface Area12 acres
Year Completed1974 (52 years old)
NID IDNC01389

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: February 10, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Vista North Carolina Limited Partnership

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Hickory Nut Lower Dam?

Hickory Nut Lower 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 Hickory Nut Lower Dam?

Hickory Nut Lower Dam is owned by Vista North Carolina Limited Partnership (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Hickory Nut Lower Dam built?

Hickory Nut Lower Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Hickory Nut Lower Dam?

Hickory Nut Lower 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 Hickory Nut Lower Dam last inspected?

Hickory Nut Lower Dam was last inspected on February 10, 2023. 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.