Trout Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Trout Lake, also known as Powder Horne Mountain Dam, is a private recreational lake located in Watauga, North Carolina.


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Summary

Managed by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program, this earth dam was completed in 1971 and stands at a hydraulic height of 43 feet, with a structural height of 49 feet. The lake has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking water-based activities.

Situated on Laurel Fork Creek in the Wilmington District, Trout Lake offers a serene escape for fishing, boating, and other recreational pursuits. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in December 2019. With a designated emergency action plan and regular inspection schedule, safety measures are in place to ensure the well-being of visitors and surrounding communities. The presence of Virginia Foxx (R) as the Congressional representative underscores the importance of maintaining this vital water resource in the region.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, Trout Lake serves as a valuable asset for both locals and visitors to enjoy. With its picturesque setting and diverse recreational opportunities, this privately owned lake plays a crucial role in the conservation and sustainable management of water in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Trout Lake stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship and a reminder of the interconnectedness between human activities and natural ecosystems.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

170

River Or Stream

Laurel Fork Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

43

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

49

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

49
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.