Oliver Dam
Key Takeaway
Oliver Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. 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 | 210 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 25 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 19 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3 acres |
| Drainage Area | 448 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 224 cfs |
| NID ID | NC04672 |
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
John G. Oliver
Private
Nearby Dams
Yellow Jacket Lake Dam
Wilkes, NC
Low HazardDwight Baity Dam
Wilkes, NC
Low HazardMcelwee Dam
Wilkes, NC
Low HazardC. A. Robinson Dam
Wilkes, NC
Significant HazardWatts Lake Dam
Alexander, NC
Low HazardHolly Farms Dam
Wilkes, NC
Low HazardW. Kerr Scott Dam
Wilkes, NC
High HazardMccurdy Dam
Alexander, NC
High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Oliver Dam?
Oliver 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 Oliver Dam?
Oliver Dam is owned by John G. Oliver (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Oliver Dam?
Oliver 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 Oliver Dam last inspected?
Oliver Dam was last inspected on January 6, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.