Simpson Lake Dam

Lamb Creek· Transylvania, North Carolina· Built 1963· Earth·
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Simpson Lake Dam is classified as significant hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length580 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage27 acre-ft
Normal Storage23 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Year Completed1963 (63 years old)
NID IDNC00212

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 31, 2014
State Regulated: No

Ownership

Alan W Winchester

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Simpson Lake Dam?

Simpson 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 Simpson Lake Dam?

Simpson Lake Dam is owned by Alan W Winchester (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Simpson Lake Dam built?

Simpson Lake Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Simpson Lake Dam?

Simpson 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 Simpson Lake Dam last inspected?

Simpson Lake Dam was last inspected on March 31, 2014. 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.