Young Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Young Dam, also known as Lora Young Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Transylvania County, North Carolina.


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Summary

This earth-type dam stands at a hydraulic height of 34 feet and a structural height of 36 feet, with a length of 520 feet. Its primary purpose is for recreation, with a storage capacity of 210 acre-feet and a surface area of 12.5 acres. The dam is situated on Upper Creek and is under the regulatory oversight of the NC Department of Environmental Quality's Dam Safety Program.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Young Dam received a satisfactory condition assessment during its last inspection in July 2015. The dam is regularly inspected every two years to ensure its safety and integrity. While there have been no major modifications or enhancements to the dam in recent years, it remains an important structure for water resource management and recreational activities in the area. With its picturesque location in the city of Brevard, Young Dam continues to serve as a vital asset for the community and visitors alike.

Dam Length

520

River Or Stream

Upper Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.5

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

947

Nid Storage

210

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.