High Shoals
Key Takeaway
High Shoals is classified as low hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1922 and is 104 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 20 ft (taller than 30.1% in NC) |
| Dam Length | 625 ft |
| Dam Type | Masonry |
| Max Storage | 20 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 20 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 8 acres |
| Drainage Area | 509 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 28,828 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1922 (104 years old) |
| NID ID | NC01210 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
High Shoals, LLC
Private
Nearby Dams
Hardins
Gaston, NC
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Low HazardLong Shoals Lake Dam
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Low HazardRhyne Mills Dam #1
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Significant HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of High Shoals?
High Shoals is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates High Shoals?
High Shoals is owned by High Shoals, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was High Shoals built?
High Shoals was completed in 1922, making it 104 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 High Shoals?
High Shoals serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is High Shoals?
High Shoals has a dam height of 20 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was High Shoals last inspected?
High Shoals was last inspected on August 27, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.