Lake Junaluska Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Lake Junaluska Dam, located in North Carolina, was completed in 1913 and serves as a vital recreational resource in the area.


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Summary

With a maximum storage capacity of 7,720 acre-feet and a normal storage of 6,755 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in providing water for various recreational activities in Lake Junaluska. The dam is primarily earth-filled and stands at a structural height of 35 feet, with a hydraulic height of 29 feet, ensuring the safety and stability of the structure.

Managed by a private owner, Lake Junaluska Dam is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program. The dam is inspected and enforced by state authorities, with the last inspection conducted in November 2017, revealing a satisfactory condition assessment. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam has met regulatory guidelines and is equipped with emergency action plans to mitigate any potential risks. With its location on Richland Creek and close proximity to Lake Junaluska, the dam remains a key feature in the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

As a significant structure in the region, Lake Junaluska Dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also contributes to the overall water management and environmental sustainability in Haywood County, North Carolina. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance measures, the dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate adaptation strategies in the face of potential hazards and risks. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience can appreciate the importance of Lake Junaluska Dam in safeguarding both natural ecosystems and human communities in the area.

Year Completed

1913

Dam Length

725

River Or Stream

Richland Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

195

Hydraulic Height

29

Drainage Area

39680

Nid Storage

7720

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.