Watts Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Watts Lake Dam is classified as low hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1948 and is 78 years old. Its primary use is recreation.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 250 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 87 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Year Completed | 1948 (78 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1997 |
| NID ID | NC01700 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Steve D Starnes
Private
Nearby Dams
C. A. Robinson Dam
Wilkes, NC
Significant HazardMccurdy Dam
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High HazardDwight Baity Dam
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Low HazardMcelwee Dam
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Low HazardOliver Dam
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High HazardYellow Jacket Lake Dam
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Low HazardDeater Lake Dam
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Low HazardBrazel Dam
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Low HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Watts Lake Dam?
Watts Lake Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Watts Lake Dam?
Watts Lake Dam is owned by Steve D Starnes (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Watts Lake Dam built?
Watts Lake Dam was completed in 1948, making it 78 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 Watts Lake Dam?
Watts Lake 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 Watts Lake Dam last inspected?
Watts Lake Dam was last inspected on September 26, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.