Forest Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Forest Lake Dam in Bostic, North Carolina, stands as a vital recreational resource along the 2nd Broad River-Tr.
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Summary
With a hydraulic height of 34 feet and a structural height of 38 feet, this earth dam was completed in 1963 and boasts a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. Despite its primary purpose for recreation, the dam's significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment raise concerns for its long-term stability.
Managed by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, Forest Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in February 2020. Its location within Rutherford County underscores the importance of maintaining its integrity to ensure the safety of nearby communities. While the dam lacks certain features like spillways and outlet gates, its role in providing recreational opportunities must be balanced with the need for diligent maintenance and risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards and safeguard the surrounding environment.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to monitor the condition of Forest Lake Dam and advocate for necessary upgrades and repairs to enhance its resilience. By staying informed about its maintenance schedule, inspection frequency, and risk assessment measures, stakeholders can play a proactive role in preserving this essential water infrastructure for both recreational enjoyment and environmental protection. As climate change continues to impact water resources, ensuring the safety and stability of dams like Forest Lake Dam is paramount for sustainable water management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
475 |
River Or Stream |
2nd Broad River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Second Broad River Nr Logan
|
64cfs |
Cove Creek Near Lake Lure
|
64cfs |
First Broad River Near Casar
|
53cfs |
Broad River Near Boiling Springs
|
623cfs |
North Pacolet River At Fingerville
|
113cfs |
Pacolet River Near Fingerville
|
106cfs |
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.
Forest Lake Dam