Lake Hyco Dam

Hyco River· Person, North Carolina· Built 1963· Earth·
High Hazard Recreation Water Supply Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Lake Hyco Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 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 Length1,800 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage160.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage78.0K acre-ft
Surface Area3,750 acres
Drainage Area121,600 sq mi
Max Discharge33,000 cfs
Year Completed1963 (63 years old)
NID IDNC00656

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: April 19, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Duke Energy Corporation

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lake Hyco Dam?

Lake Hyco 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 Lake Hyco Dam?

Lake Hyco Dam is owned by Duke Energy Corporation (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Lake Hyco Dam built?

Lake Hyco 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 Lake Hyco Dam?

Lake Hyco Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Lake Hyco Dam last inspected?

Lake Hyco Dam was last inspected on April 19, 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.