Vitale Orchard Dam
Key Takeaway
Vitale Orchard Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 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 | 318 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 54 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 40 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 3 acres |
| Drainage Area | 114 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,775 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1965 (61 years old) |
| NID ID | NC00158 |
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
Robert Vitale
Private
Nearby Dams
Benn Grant Lower Dam
Macon, NC
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Significant HazardWestgate Plaza Dam
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Significant HazardR.S. Jones Jr Lower Dam
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High HazardR.S. Jones Jr Upper Dam
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High HazardCoweeta Lake Dam
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High HazardSouthard Dam
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Significant HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Vitale Orchard Dam?
Vitale Orchard 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 Vitale Orchard Dam?
Vitale Orchard Dam is owned by Robert Vitale (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Vitale Orchard Dam built?
Vitale Orchard Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 Vitale Orchard Dam?
Vitale Orchard 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 Vitale Orchard Dam last inspected?
Vitale Orchard Dam was last inspected on April 6, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.