Ravenel Lake Dam

Cullasaja River· Macon, North Carolina· Built 1965· Concrete·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Ravenel Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length31,510 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage185 acre-ft
Normal Storage110 acre-ft
Surface Area18 acres
Year Completed1965 (61 years old)
NID IDNC00142

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: No
Last Inspection: March 22, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Ravenel Lake Association

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Ravenel Lake Dam?

Ravenel Lake 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 Ravenel Lake Dam?

Ravenel Lake Dam is owned by Ravenel Lake Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Ravenel Lake Dam built?

Ravenel Lake Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Ravenel Lake Dam?

Ravenel 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 Ravenel Lake Dam last inspected?

Ravenel Lake Dam was last inspected on March 22, 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.