Tobacco Branch Dam

Tobacco Branch· Graham, North Carolina· Earth·
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Tobacco Branch Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. 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 Length204 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage48 acre-ft
Normal Storage15 acre-ft
Surface Area5 acres
Drainage Area434 sq mi
Max Discharge2,106 cfs
Year Modified2004
NID IDNC02645

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: February 22, 2023
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: NCDEQ, DEMLR, Dam Safety Program

Ownership

Tobacco Branch Property Owner's Association

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Tobacco Branch Dam?

Tobacco Branch 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 Tobacco Branch Dam?

Tobacco Branch Dam is owned by Tobacco Branch Property Owner's Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Tobacco Branch Dam?

Tobacco Branch 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 Tobacco Branch Dam last inspected?

Tobacco Branch Dam was last inspected on February 22, 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.