Franklin Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Franklin Dam, located in Macon, North Carolina, is a captivating structure that harnesses the power of the Little Tennessee River for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1925, this gravity dam stands at a height of 36 feet and stretches 463 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet. The dam's spillway, controlled with a width of 252 feet, ensures the safe discharge of up to 68,000 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Franklin Dam remains in good condition with a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating of 1. The dam is inspected every three years by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, guaranteeing its safe operation and compliance with regulatory standards. This multi-arch dam, built on a rock foundation, serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, providing clean energy and water resource management for the surrounding community.

As a significant landmark in the area, Franklin Dam not only contributes to the generation of hydroelectric power but also plays a crucial role in water resource management. With its impressive structural design and historical significance, Franklin Dam stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and the sustainable utilization of natural resources in Macon, North Carolina.

Year Completed

1925

Dam Length

463

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

Little Tennessee River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

174

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

310

Nid Storage

500

Structural Height

36

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 6

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

36
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.