Lower Little River Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lower Little River Dam #1, located in Taylorsville, North Carolina, is a private dam regulated by the NCDEQ Dam Safety Program.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam, standing at 23 feet high with a hydraulic height of 19 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes along the Lower Little River. With a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 300 cubic feet per second, the dam covers a surface area of 6.2 acres and drains a watershed area of 145 square miles.
Despite being rated with a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of December 2020 is fair. Regular inspections occur every two years to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. In case of emergencies, the dam does not currently have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, but it is monitored closely for risk management measures. The dam is not under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), and its operations and funding are solely managed by the private owner.
Lower Little River Dam #1 presents a unique recreational opportunity for residents and visitors in the Alexander County area. While there are potential hazards associated with the dam, its current condition assessment suggests that it is structurally sound. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor the dam's maintenance and safety protocols to ensure the continued enjoyment of this valuable resource for the community.
Dam Length |
300 |
River Or Stream |
Lower Little River-Tr |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Drainage Area |
145 |
Nid Storage |
56 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lower Little River Dam #1