Wildcat Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Wildcat Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in North Carolina. It was completed in 1920 and is 106 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 | 0 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 202 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 168 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 328 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 13 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1920 (106 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2008 |
| NID ID | NC00281 |
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
Lees-McRae College, Inc
Private
Nearby Dams
Sugar Mountain Dam
Avery, NC
High HazardAndrews Dam
Avery, NC
Significant HazardSnow Lake Dam
Avery, NC
High HazardLinville Ridge Dam
Avery, NC
High HazardGrandfather Small Pond Dam
Avery, NC
High HazardTynecastle Dam
Avery, NC
High HazardLake Coffey Dam
Watauga, NC
Low HazardGrandfather Mountain Dam
Avery, NC
High HazardFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Wildcat Lake Dam?
Wildcat Lake 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 Wildcat Lake Dam?
Wildcat Lake Dam is owned by Lees-McRae College, Inc (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Wildcat Lake Dam built?
Wildcat Lake Dam was completed in 1920, making it 106 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 Wildcat Lake Dam?
Wildcat 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 Wildcat Lake Dam last inspected?
Wildcat Lake Dam was last inspected on March 22, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.