Whiteside Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Whiteside Lake Dam, located in Norton, North Carolina, is a private recreational dam constructed in 1949 on Grassy Camp Creek.


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Summary

With a structural height of 13 feet and a length of 324 feet, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene 18.5-acre surface area for visitors to enjoy.

Although not state-regulated, Whiteside Lake Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam has a significant hazard potential and its condition was last assessed in 2004, with no recent updates available. Despite not being USACE-owned, the dam continues to provide a picturesque setting for locals and tourists to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding Jackson County landscape.

As a notable feature in the Savannah District, Whiteside Lake Dam stands as a testament to North Carolina's commitment to preserving its water resources and supporting recreational opportunities for its residents. With a rich history dating back to its completion in 1949, the dam remains a beloved destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts looking to explore the natural wonders of the region.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

324

River Or Stream

Grassy Camp Creek

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

18.5

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

13
       
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.