Isothermal College Dam
Key Takeaway
Isothermal College Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1969 and is 57 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 | 876 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 104 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 65 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 15 acres |
| Max Discharge | 1,600 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1969 (57 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00098 |
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
Isothermal Community College
State Government
Nearby Dams
Fraternal Order of Eagles Dam
Rutherford, NC
Significant HazardJohn W. Bennett Dam
Rutherford, NC
High HazardSunnyside Lake Dam
Rutherford, NC
High HazardSheriff Huskey Dam
Rutherford, NC
Low HazardForest Lake Dam
Rutherford, NC
Significant HazardRutherford County Boe Dam
Rutherford, NC
Significant HazardRutherfordton Wastewater Lagoon Lower Dam
Rutherford, NC
Significant HazardRutherfordton Wastewater Lagoon Upper Dam
Rutherford, NC
Significant HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Isothermal College Dam?
Isothermal College 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 Isothermal College Dam?
Isothermal College Dam is owned by Isothermal Community College (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Isothermal College Dam built?
Isothermal College Dam was completed in 1969, making it 57 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 Isothermal College Dam?
Isothermal College 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 Isothermal College Dam last inspected?
Isothermal College Dam was last inspected on December 13, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.