Watauga Vista Dam
Key Takeaway
Watauga Vista Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1968 and is 58 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 | 167 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 31 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 24 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 2 acres |
| Drainage Area | 384 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 808 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1968 (58 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1985 |
| NID ID | NC01365 |
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
Watauga Vista Owner's Association, Inc
Private
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High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Watauga Vista Dam?
Watauga Vista 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 Watauga Vista Dam?
Watauga Vista Dam is owned by Watauga Vista Owner's Association, Inc (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Watauga Vista Dam built?
Watauga Vista Dam was completed in 1968, making it 58 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 Watauga Vista Dam?
Watauga Vista 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 Watauga Vista Dam last inspected?
Watauga Vista Dam was last inspected on January 12, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.