Upper Tanglewood Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Tanglewood Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 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 | 235 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 25 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 18 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 155 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 520 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1974 (52 years old) |
| NID ID | NC01263 |
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
Tanglewood Forest, Inc.
Private
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High Hazard 50 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Tanglewood Dam?
Upper Tanglewood 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 Upper Tanglewood Dam?
Upper Tanglewood Dam is owned by Tanglewood Forest, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Tanglewood Dam built?
Upper Tanglewood Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Upper Tanglewood Dam?
Upper Tanglewood 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 Upper Tanglewood Dam last inspected?
Upper Tanglewood Dam was last inspected on January 27, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.