Atagahi Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Atagahi Lake Dam, located in North Carolina, serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction in the region.


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Summary

Built in 1973, this private-owned earth dam stands at a structural height of 88 feet and has a hydraulic height of 80 feet, providing a vital water storage capacity of 2,780 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with additional functions for recreational activities, making it a multifaceted asset for the community.

The dam's fair condition assessment highlights the ongoing maintenance and inspection efforts to ensure its safety and effectiveness. With a high hazard potential, Atagahi Lake Dam's last inspection in March 2019 underscores the importance of regular monitoring and emergency preparedness in case of unforeseen events. Managed by the Dam Safety Program under the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality, the dam plays a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area, safeguarding the surrounding community and environment.

Situated in the picturesque Conestee Falls Develop near Carson Creek, Atagahi Lake Dam's 480-foot length and 65-acre surface area make it a prominent feature in the landscape. With its strategic location and critical flood mitigation capabilities, this dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management, climate adaptation, and community safety.

Year Completed

1973

Dam Length

480

River Or Stream

Carson Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

65

Hydraulic Height

80

Nid Storage

2780

Structural Height

88

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

88
       
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.