Pyle Dam

Potts Branch· Macon, North Carolina· Built 1977· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Pyle Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1977 and is 49 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length192 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage28 acre-ft
Normal Storage16 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area320 sq mi
Max Discharge650 cfs
Year Completed1977 (49 years old)
NID IDNC01364

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: April 6, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Honelowee Estates Owners Assoc.

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Pyle Dam?

Pyle Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Pyle Dam?

Pyle Dam is owned by Honelowee Estates Owners Assoc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Pyle Dam built?

Pyle Dam was completed in 1977, making it 49 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 Pyle Dam?

Pyle 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 Pyle Dam last inspected?

Pyle Dam was last inspected on April 6, 2022. 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.