Lake Vista Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Vista Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 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 | 375 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 69 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 58 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 480 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 20 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2009 |
| NID ID | NC01051 |
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
Swamp Fox, LLC
Private
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Vista Dam?
Lake Vista 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 Vista Dam?
Lake Vista Dam is owned by Swamp Fox, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Vista Dam built?
Lake Vista Dam was completed in 1958, making it 68 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 Vista Dam?
Lake Vista 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 Lake Vista Dam last inspected?
Lake Vista Dam was last inspected on March 5, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.