Whitney Dam
Key Takeaway
Whitney 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 Length | 145 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 10 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 7 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1 acres |
| NID ID | NC04333 |
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
Peter Hooper
Private
Nearby Dams
Bird Lake Dam
Jackson, NC
Significant HazardSchmehl Dam
Swain, NC
High HazardBryson
Swain, NC
High Hazard 45 ftMchan Dam
Swain, NC
Significant HazardWidenhouse Dam
Swain, NC
High HazardBurgess Lake Dam
Jackson, NC
Significant HazardLowenstein Dam
Swain, NC
Significant HazardMitchell Dam
Jackson, NC
Significant HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Whitney Dam?
Whitney 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 Whitney Dam?
Whitney Dam is owned by Peter Hooper (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Whitney Dam?
Whitney 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 Whitney Dam last inspected?
Whitney Dam was last inspected on March 21, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.