Shelton Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Shelton Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1955 and is 71 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 | 800 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 122 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Year Completed | 1955 (71 years old) |
| NID ID | NC02352 |
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
O'Brien Southern Trenching, Inc.
Private
Nearby Dams
Shelton Lake Dam #2
Forsyth, NC
High HazardShelton Lake Dam #3
Forsyth, NC
High HazardShelton Lake Dam #4
Forsyth, NC
High HazardAlsup Lake Dam
Forsyth, NC
Low HazardVogler Lake Dam
Forsyth, NC
Low HazardBennett Lake Dam
Forsyth, NC
Low HazardParrish Lake Dam
Forsyth, NC
Low HazardHanes Lake Dam
Forsyth, NC
High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Shelton Lake Dam?
Shelton 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 Shelton Lake Dam?
Shelton Lake Dam is owned by O'Brien Southern Trenching, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Shelton Lake Dam built?
Shelton Lake Dam was completed in 1955, making it 71 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 Shelton Lake Dam?
Shelton 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 Shelton Lake Dam last inspected?
Shelton Lake Dam was last inspected on March 14, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.