Thompson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Thompson Lake Dam, located in Blevins Crossroads, North Carolina, stands as a vital structure on the Pine Branch Glade Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1953, this private dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a hydraulic height of 23.3 feet and a structural height of 28 feet, Thompson Lake Dam holds a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 6 acres for leisure activities.

Maintained and regulated by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program, Thompson Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in January 2019. The dam boasts a drainage area of 461 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 149 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety and functionality of the surrounding landscape. Despite its age, Thompson Lake Dam continues to serve as a scenic and secure destination for visitors looking to appreciate the beauty of North Carolina's water resources.

With Virginia Foxx (R) as the representative for the Wilmington District overseeing Thompson Lake Dam, this earth-type structure not only enhances the recreational opportunities in Alleghany County but also plays a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As a well-maintained and regulated dam, Thompson Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management and the preservation of natural ecosystems for future generations of enthusiasts to enjoy.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

Pine Branch Glade Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6

Hydraulic Height

23.3

Drainage Area

461

Nid Storage

67

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds