Fox Mountain Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fox Mountain Lake Dam, located in New Hope, North Carolina, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1955, this earth dam stands at a hydraulic height of 38.3 feet and a structural height of 56.7 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 180 acre-feet. The dam, situated on Rocky Creek-Tr, covers a surface area of 3.7 acres and has a normal storage capacity of 59 acre-feet.

While the dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ), with permits and inspections in place, its hazard potential is rated as low. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in October 2015, with a frequency of every 5 years. Despite being structurally sound, the condition assessment of Fox Mountain Lake Dam is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further evaluation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fox Mountain Lake Dam offers a fascinating insight into the intersection of human activity and natural ecosystems. With its recreational focus and regulated status, this dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in the region, providing both leisure opportunities and essential water management functions. Its location in the picturesque surroundings of Iredell County adds to the allure, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the intricate balance between water resources and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

260

River Or Stream

Rocky Creek-Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.7

Hydraulic Height

38.3

Nid Storage

180

Structural Height

56.7

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

57
       
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.