Third Creek Watershed Dam #18

UT to Third Creek· Iredell, North Carolina· Built 1960· Earth·
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Private

Key Takeaway

Third Creek Watershed Dam #18 is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1960 and is 66 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 Length420 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage614 acre-ft
Normal Storage36 acre-ft
Surface Area5 acres
Drainage Area804 sq mi
Max Discharge9,671 cfs
Year Completed1960 (66 years old)
NID IDNC00095

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: March 14, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Barium Springs Home For Children

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Third Creek Watershed Dam #18?

Third Creek Watershed Dam #18 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 Third Creek Watershed Dam #18?

Third Creek Watershed Dam #18 is owned by Barium Springs Home For Children (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Third Creek Watershed Dam #18 built?

Third Creek Watershed Dam #18 was completed in 1960, making it 66 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 Third Creek Watershed Dam #18?

Third Creek Watershed Dam #18 serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Third Creek Watershed Dam #18 last inspected?

Third Creek Watershed Dam #18 was last inspected on March 14, 2023. 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.