Osage Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Osage Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 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 | 269 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 211 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 145 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 17 acres |
| Drainage Area | 152 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 25 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00171 |
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
Rocky Knob Homeowners Association
Private
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Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Osage Lake Dam?
Osage Lake 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 Osage Lake Dam?
Osage Lake Dam is owned by Rocky Knob Homeowners Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Osage Lake Dam built?
Osage Lake Dam was completed in 1948, making it 78 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 Osage Lake Dam?
Osage Lake 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 Osage Lake Dam last inspected?
Osage Lake Dam was last inspected on February 14, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.