Valdese Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Valdese Lake Dam, located in Valdese, North Carolina, serves as a critical water supply infrastructure for the local community.


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Summary

Built in 1935, this earth-type dam stands at a structural height of 50 feet, with a hydraulic height of 44 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the region. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its condition since its last inspection in 2005.

Valdese Lake Dam spans 288 feet in length and is situated on Hoyle Creek, ensuring a reliable source of water supply for the surrounding area. Although not regulated by the state, the dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a maximum discharge capacity of 148 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring the availability of water for the community's needs.

While Valdese Lake Dam may not be a high-risk structure, its significance in providing water resources to the region cannot be understated. As a local government-owned facility, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of water infrastructure in sustaining communities and mitigating the impacts of climate change on water availability. With its consistent operations and regular inspections, Valdese Lake Dam remains a vital asset for the residents of Valdese and the broader Burke County area.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

288

River Or Stream

Hoyle Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

44

Nid Storage

106

Structural Height

50

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

50
       
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.