Sunnyside Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sunnyside Lake Dam, located in Harris, Rutherford County, North Carolina, is a privately owned earth dam built in 1950 primarily for recreational purposes.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at a structural height of 24 feet with a hydraulic height of 21.5 feet, impounding a reservoir with a normal storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. The dam's drainage area covers 269 acres, with a maximum discharge capacity of 150 cubic feet per second.
Despite its recreational significance, Sunnyside Lake Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in February 2019. The dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program, which oversees state permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities. With a history of modifications and the absence of emergency action plans, the dam's risk management measures and preparedness for potential hazards are unclear, warranting attention and potential improvements to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Sunnyside Lake Dam can appreciate its role in providing recreational opportunities while recognizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate safety risks and ensure the sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem. The dam's location within the Long Branch-Tr watershed and its association with the Nashville District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscore the interconnectedness of water infrastructure, regulatory oversight, and community resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. Continued engagement with stakeholders, regular inspections, and proactive risk management strategies will be key to safeguarding the dam and its surroundings for future generations.
Year Completed |
1950 |
Dam Length |
360 |
River Or Stream |
Long Branch-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
21.5 |
Drainage Area |
269 |
Nid Storage |
97 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Sunnyside Lake Dam