Sapphire Lower Dam
Key Takeaway
Sapphire Lower Dam is classified as low hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1993 and is 33 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 245 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 50 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 23 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 134 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1993 (33 years old) |
| NID ID | NC04987 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Burlingame Property Owners Association
Private
Nearby Dams
Sapphire Lakes G & T Dam #1
Transylvania, NC
High HazardIntermont Dam
Transylvania, NC
High HazardSapphire Lake Lower Dam
Jackson, NC
Significant HazardHogback Dam
Jackson, NC
High HazardLake Toxaway Lower Dam
Transylvania, NC
High HazardCardinal Lake Dam
Transylvania, NC
Significant HazardSapphire Lake Upper Dam
Jackson, NC
Significant HazardThe Falls Dam
Transylvania, NC
Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sapphire Lower Dam?
Sapphire Lower Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Sapphire Lower Dam?
Sapphire Lower Dam is owned by Burlingame Property Owners Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sapphire Lower Dam built?
Sapphire Lower Dam was completed in 1993, making it 33 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 Sapphire Lower Dam?
Sapphire Lower 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 Sapphire Lower Dam last inspected?
Sapphire Lower Dam was last inspected on March 19, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.