Osceola Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Osceola Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 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 | 340 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 500 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 300 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 32 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,970 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,300 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00239 |
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
T & A Carolina Corporation
Private
Nearby Dams
Hendersonville Country Club Dam
Henderson, NC
High HazardCrooked Creek Lake Dam
Henderson, NC
High HazardRoss Pond Dam
Henderson, NC
High HazardLake Wood Dam
Henderson, NC
Significant HazardLaurel Park Lake Dam
Henderson, NC
High HazardShealy Lake Dam Lower
Henderson, NC
Significant HazardShealy Lake Dam Upper
Henderson, NC
High HazardRainbow Spring Lake Dam
Henderson, NC
High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Osceola Lake Dam?
Osceola 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 Osceola Lake Dam?
Osceola Lake Dam is owned by T & A Carolina Corporation (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Osceola Lake Dam built?
Osceola Lake Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Osceola Lake Dam?
Osceola 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 Osceola Lake Dam last inspected?
Osceola Lake Dam was last inspected on August 30, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.